Helen L. Kroupa

Helen Louise Kroupa, 90, life long resident, of Traverse City passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 23, 2015 at the Grand Traverse Pavilions. Helen was born on March 15, 1925 in Petoskey, Michigan to the late Elmer Jay and Helen (Wyatt) Fahs. She was married to Thomas Kroupa on October 16, 1942 at St. Francis Catholic Church. He predeceased her in 1988. Before her retirement, Helen had been employed as a retail clothing buyer for Milliken’s Department Store. She was a member of St. Francis Catholic Church, where she volunteered to work on funeral luncheons and at the chapel. She was a life member and held many offices of the American Legion Auxiliary – Bowen-Holliday Unit #35. Helen loved baking, especially cookies for her grandchildren. She was an avid reader, enjoyed doing crossword puzzles and for many years doing ceramics. Above all spending time with her family was her greatest joy. Helen is survived by a daughter and two sons; Christine (Milton) Kniss of Columbus, OH; Thomas (Karyl) Kroupa of Traverse City and James (Brenda) Kroupa of Traverse City. Also surviving are eight grandchildren, many great-grandchildren and a great-great grandchild as well as many nieces and nephews. Helen was preceded in death by her parents, husband, two daughters; Cynthia Anne Kroupa and Ann Elizabeth Kroupa and a brother; Dr. Harold Fahs. Friends are welcome to visit with Helen’s family on Sunday, September 27, 2015 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 305 Sixth St., Traverse City, MI 49684, with a Rosary at 7:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial, honoring Helen will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, September 28, 2015 at St. Francis Catholic Church, 1025 S. Union St., Traverse City, MI 49684. Rev. Fr. Kenneth Stachnik will officiate. Rite of Committal will follow in Oakwood Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to Hospice of Michigan, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Mass Intentions. Please feel free to share you thoughts and memories with Helen’s family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com. The family is being cared for by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Helen L. Kroupa

March 15, 1925 - September 23, 2015