Obituary of Helen Whalen

Helen E. Whalen, a woman of deep faith, passed away after a short illness on Wednesday morning, July 9, 2014. She was 84 years old. Helen was born in the family home in Watertown. Her parents, Ingerbret and Hilma Gjertsen were of Scandinavian decent. Helen grew up in Watertown and was a graduate of Watertown High School. She married Earl Whalen and they settled in Saugus over 50 years ago. Helen devoted her life to caring for her family and professing her love for the Lord. She was an active member of the Salem Bible Church and previously was a longtime member of the Church of the Open Bible in Burlington. She served a Deaconess and was involved in a number of Church groups including the Women’s Fellowship Committee. She worked part time at the Church of the Open Bible as a secretary. At home, Helen’s life revolved around her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. She was a fantastic cook and baker and it was a delight to be invited for a meal. She also enjoyed quilting and crafting. During her illness all her family surrounded her with love and tenderly cared for her in her final months. Helen was the loving wife of the late Earl A. Whalen. She was the loving mother of Richard A. and & his wife Doris of Raymond, NH, Elaine D. Shukri & her husband Alex of Burlington, and Cynthia J. Chaney & her husband Daniel of East Grand Forks, ND. She was the sister of John Gjertsen of NB and the late George Gjertsen. She was the loving grandmother of Stacy & Steven Whalen, Timothy, Juli & Jillian Shukri, Janna Snell, Kara & Brent Chaney, Kendra Russell, and Kathryn Bjerke. Great grandmother of Caylin and Joshua. A memorial service will be held at the Salem Bible Church, 11 Ermer Rd, Salem, NH on Monday, July 14 at 7 p.m. Relatives and friend are respectfully invited. For obituary, online guestbook and directions see www.sullivanfuneralhome.net or www.salembible.org