Helen E. O'Conner

Helen Elizabeth O’Connor, 93, died peacefully at her residence in the Wesbury United Methodist Community, Wednesday, February 13, 2013.  She was born on April 6, 1919 in Venango to Odell and Sophia Warden Hatfield.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Ivan, of 62 years and son, Daniel.  Also deceased are three sisters, Marian Koontz Reynolds, Cora (Issy) Mitchell and Frances Esteras and two brothers, Arthur (Barney) Hatfield and an infant Newt Hatfield.  She is survived by her daughter-in-law, Mercedes Lowry and many nieces and nephews from the Hatfield and O’Connor clans.

Helen was a World War II Army bride accompanying her husband during his stateside deployment.  Her professional career included beautician and office work in the medical field.  She enjoyed volunteering at holiday meal kitchens and Wesbury’s gift shop.  Helen was an avid crafter, excelling in sewing, needlepoint and knitting.  She rarely missed an opportunity to play cards and will be missed at her bridge and poker clubs.  Summer pastimes included rooting for her favorite Pittsburgh Pirates and bird watching.  There was always a dog in her life, the last being her beloved Gizmo.

She was an active member of Stone United Methodist Church.

Calling hours will be Friday from 4-8 p.m. at the Robert W. Waid Funeral Home, Inc., 581 Chestnut Street, Meadville.

The private family funeral service will be officiated by the Rev. Robert Fuller, Pastor of Littles Corners United Methodist Church.

Interment will be in Venango Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to the Wesbury Foundation, 31 N. Park Avenue, Meadville, PA 16335.

Memories and condolences may be shared at waidfuneralhome.net