Helen was born on Dec. 8, 1936 in Reedley, Calif., to Earl and Dorothy Beach.
Helen is survived by her husband Ed and their children Douglas, Kevin, Marie Gorbett, and Rebecca, their nine grand-children, and 14 great-grandchildren. Helen is also survived by her sisters, brothers and many nephews and nieces.
Helen grew up in California but in her heart called Enterprise, Oregon home, where she lived for 45 years. Helen and Ed met in high school in Chico, California and married on October 15th, 1955. When Helen and Ed moved to Wallowa County they eventually fulfilled the dream of owning their own ranch and small business. Helen’s management of the finances and accounting helped make the ranch and businesses what they are today. Helen’s innate ability of transplanting trees led to a beautiful yard and riparian areas in the Jones properties. Helen’s love of gardening, cows, hiking, bonfires, and fishing were passed on to her children and grand-children. She led many hikes into our beloved Wallowa’s and educated us all on the joys of the Eagle Cap Wilderness. Helen’s amazing ability to trap gophers on the farm was the awe of many and a source of pride. Helen was also very involved in the community during her years; leading 4-H groups, providing leadership in Wallowa County Cattlewomen, and involvement in the Enterprise Community Church. Our tough and direct talking wife, Mama, and Grandma will be sorely missed and told stories about for generations.
A Celebration of Life memorial will be on Saturday May 7, 2016 at 3 p.m. at the Jones Ranch in Enterprise.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity. In similar circumstances, Helen donated to the future of her grandchildren.
Please sign the online guest book at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com.
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in care of arrangements.
