Helen Myrtle Frizzell

Helen Myrtle Frizzell, age 93, of La Grande, died October 18, 2009 at her home. A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, October 22, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. at Daniels~Knopp Funeral, Cremation & Life Celebration Center, 1502 7th Street in La Grande. Committal and interment will follow at the Summerville Cemetery. Viewing will be held on Wednesday from 4:00 until 6:00 p.m. at Daniels~Knopp.

Mrs. Frizzell was born on September 8, 1916, the daughter of Alonzo C. and Carrie (Bennett) Gillham at Weston, Oregon. She graduated from La Grande High School in 1935. She worked in the old Grande Ronde Hospital from 1937 until 1942 in the diet kitchen. During World War II she worked for the Union Pacific Railroad as an operator. After the war ended she married Elton Leroy Frizzell on August 21, 1946. They made their home in La Grande for 31 years. When Elton retired they moved to his parent's home on Hunter Road near Summerville in 1977. Elton had a massive heart attack on November 28, 1977 and passed away. She lived on the farm for many years before moving back into La Grande.

Mrs. Frizzell was a lifetime member of the Jewel Rebekah Lodge #96 which was a big part of her life. She joined in 1940 and was a past Noble Grand. She held all offices except for secretary. She was also a member of the American Legion Auxiliary Post #43 in La Grande and was a member of the Past President Club of the American Legion. She was a member of the Eight & Forty Club, the Pleasant Grove Grange and the Two Rock Extension Group.

Survivors include her children and their spouses, Dale and Vickie Frizzell of La Grande and Judy and Ted Vandenberg of Summerville; four grandchildren; six great grandchildren; three great great grandchildren; and other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by sisters, Jessie Gregory, Elsie McIntosh and Mary Cook. Those who wish may make contributions in her memory to the American Heart Association.

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