Surnames: Putman, Gilles, Michels, Neumann, Nelson, Becker, Servais, Dioka

----Source: Clark County Press (Neillsville, Clark Co., WI.) March 18, 2009

Putman, Helen J. (19 January 1916 - 12 March 2009)

Helen J. Putman, 93, of Humbird died Thursday, March 12, 2009, at Black River Memorial Hospital, Black River Falls.

Helen was born Jan. 19, 1916, in Waunakee to parents Henry and Emma (Gilles) Michels. She graduated from high school in Alma Center in 1934. She married Willard Putman, June 20, 1939, in Alma Center, and the couple made their home in Humbird, where she lived most of her life.

Helen was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church of Alma Center, and she belonged to Saint Mary’s Altar Society.

In addition to spending time with family and friends, Helen’s favorite pastimes included outdoor activities such as camping, fishing and flower and vegetable gardening. Other favorite pastimes included crocheting and playing cards.

Helen is survived by her son, Allen (Linda) Putman of Humbird, her daughter, Janis (Michael) Neumann of Sparta; one brother, Francis (Rose) Michels of Alma Center; four grandchildren, John and Lisa Neumann, Kelly (Dave) Nelson and Michael Putman; one great-granddaughter, Brittany; besides other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Willard, in 1997; her son, Kenneth, in 1964; her brothers, John, George and Henry; and her sister Gertrude Becker Servais.

Funeral services for Helen J. Putman were held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 17, 2009, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church with Reverend Father Jude T. Dioka officiating. Burial took place in Saint Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, Alma Center. Friends called Monday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Jensen-Modjeski Funeral Home, Hixton, and also one hour prior to services at the church.