ALTHOFF, Helen Ann

Helen Ann Althoff, Aug. 30, 1908 - Dec. 12, 2002. Chandler Matriarch Leaves a Legacy of 112 Descendants. Helen Althoff, 94, joined her husband, Robert, and son, Wayne in heaven on Dec. 12, 2002. Helen was born in Densmore, Kansas to Henry and Theresa Buhnerkemper where she began her "Kansas Adventures" with her favorite horse "Old Ned". In addition to being an accomplished rider, Helen was the fastest runner in the County earning the nickname "Lightfoot". Helen and her family of 6 brothers and sisters moved to Illinois in 1925 when she met her husband of 70 years, Bob. Helen and Bob began their family of 12 children in Effingham, Illinois where they lived and worked until 1949. They moved west and settled in Chandler with 10 children. Two more children were born to Bob and Helen in Chandler. When asked why she had so many children, Helen always said "I took them as God gave them to me." Helen was a wonderful mother and homemaker but still found time to donate tireless volunteer hours running the St. Vincent de Paul store at St. Mary's Church in Chandler. Chandler was just a small farm town in 1949 but Bob and Helen quickly made numerous friends and created a wonderful fun-filled home life for their many children. Helen and husband, Bob, were active members of the Chandler Lion's Club and the Knight's of Columbus. Helen was a devoted wife and mother who continually emphasized to her children the virtues of kindness and humility. She ruled her family with an iron fist, yet with a great sense of humor. Helen's descendants span 5 generations. In addition to her 12 children, she has 35 grandchildren, 52 great-grandchildren and 13 great-great grandchildren who adored her. Surviving children are Doris Langston, Chandler, David Althoff, Tempe, Ken Althoff, Payson, Virginia Faulkner, Upland, CA, Carol Vadney, Gilbert, Dennis Althoff, Tempe, Richard Althoff, Rancho Mirage, CA, Robert Althoff, Tempe, Phyllis Foley, Tempe, Theresa Williams, Tempe and Patrick Althoff, Tempe. Helen's family wants to extend appreciation to her previous caregiver, Elizabeth Almirez, and especially to Mark and Cathy Cox of Cathy's Care Home in Chandler. We are so thankful to these three friends for treating our mother with dignity, love and compassion. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Published in the Arizona Republic from 12/19/2002 - 12/22/2002.