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Helen A. Bretthauer

Helen Ann Bretthauer, age 84, of North Hudson, died in the early morning on February 20, 2013 at her home in North Hudson.  Helen was born on June 8, 1928 in Appleton, WI to Francis & Helen (Balliet) Brandherm.  She attended and graduated from Menasha High School in 1946 and began her career as a secretary in Neenah, WI.  In the late 40’s, Helen met a young marine returning from service named James Bretthauer.  The two were united in marriage on August 21, 1948 in Menasha, WI.  The marriage was blessed with two daughters, Pamela and Patricia.  In 1961 the Bretthauer family made a final move to North Hudson. Helen continued her career as an office manager for Jones Chemicals in North Hudson.  She worked for Jones Chemicals until her retirement in the early 80’s.  James passed away in 1979 and Helen remained in North Hudson enjoying life with family and friends.

Anyone who knew Helen, knew that she liked to make people smile.  She provided her friends and family with much laughter and many memories.  She was a fan of North Hudson’s Pepperfest and proudly held the title of “Miss Inspiration” in 1976.  She was a practical joker and loved to tell “creative”  stories about her career in showbusiness.  She enjoyed singing and dancing, bowling, cooking, gardening and playing cards, but was always very content sitting around the kitchen table with family and friends.  Helen had a strong faith and was a devout member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Hudson.

Helen leaves behind many friends and family.  This includes her daughters, Pam Irestone of North Hudson, WI and Patty (Rick) Nelson of Scottsdale, AZ; favorite grandson, Scott (Deanna) Irestone of Las Vegas, NV; sister, Jane (Russ) Lowe of Waupaca, WI as well as many nieces, nephews and dear friends.

Helen is preceded in death by her parents, Francis and Helen Brandherm, and husband of 31 years, James Bretthauer.

A mass of Christian burial will take place at 11am on Tuesday, February 26 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Hudson.  Visitation will take place for one hour prior to services at the church as well as from 4-7pm on Monday, February 25 at the O’Connell Family Funeral Home – Hudson chapel.  715.386.3725

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