Helen M. Sullivan

(Deane) Sullivan
Helen Marie


Helen M. Sullivan, of Toledo, passed away peacefully Friday, December 5, 2008 at Ebeid Hospice Residence on the Flower Hospital campus, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to Joseph and Ethel (Regan) Deane. Helen was the youngest of eight children in a very Irish family. She played the piano and organ and had wonderful memories of family and friends gathered around the piano singing and laughing.

In 1939 the Irish clan was enlarged when she married Merle Sullivan, who himself had eight brothers and sisters. There was never a dull moment, never a lack of jokes and laughter when these personalities got together. Helen never lost her wonderful sense of humor. She loved her family, loved returning to Pittsburgh for holidays and celebrations, and was an avid supporter of the Pittsburgh Steelers.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Merle; great-granddaughter, Alaina Ortman; sisters, Martha Deane, Lucille Enders, Ethel Jones and Frances Thompson and brothers, James, Harry and Joseph Deane. Helen is the beloved mother of Dean (Linda) Sullivan, Mary Carol Krotzer, Terrance (Pam) Sullivan and James (Peggy) Sullivan; the loved "Mimi" of grandchildren, Kelly (Chris) Wilson, Lainie (Jay) Ortman, Shane Krotzer, Brian and Michael Sullivan, Jennifer (Curtis) Lowe, Christopher (Shelly), Victoria and Jeffrey Sullivan; and 15 great-grandchildren.

The family will receive guests on Wednesday from 2 – 8:00 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home, 4150 W. Laskey Rd. (419-473-0300) with Scripture Services at 7:00 p.m. Services will begin in the funeral home Thursday with prayers at 9:15 a.m. followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church, 4100 Harvest Ln., Toledo. Officiating will be Fr. William Rose. Interment will follow in Calvary Cemetery.

Our deepest appreciation to Chris for the wonderful care she gave her "Sweetie" and to Sandy, who entertained Mom with her fine music and talented artwork.

Those wishing to make monetary donations are asked to consider the Alzheimer's Association or a charity of the donor's choice.

There's a spot in our hearts that no one may own. There's a depth in our souls never sounded or known. There's a place in our memories, our lives that you fill. No other can take it, no one ever will. God bless you and keep you, Mom.