June 17, 1915 ~ February 27, 2003
Helen Mary Fisher was born Mihelena Mary Wawok on June 17, 1915 in Colorado the second of five children of Polish immigrants. Following her marriage to William Fred Fisher in 1933 the Fishers moved to Los Angeles, California. Upon seeing the Pacific Ocean for the first time Helen marveled, ''What a big lake!'' Helen gave birth to two sons, William Carl and Richard Wayne, and also helped raise her step-son, Ralph A. Fisher. Helen retired from Ralph's Grocery Stores following thirty plus years as a dedicated employee. She was widowed in 1964 and moved to Torrance where she lived until her death February 27,2003. She enjoyed many years in the Eastern Star and White Shrine. She also enjoyed traveling with her family. Helen was preceded in death by her husband, William and son, Richard. Also by all of her siblings, her step-son, John Fisher, step-daughter, Gertrude Gustafson, and step-great-grandson, John Gillette.
She is survived by her son William (Nancy), step-son, Ralph (Jeanne), grandchildren, Kathi (David) Burkhalter, Kristi Compton, Randy (Elizabeth) Fisher, and Kerryn (Lloyd) Morgan. Step-grandchildren Doris Marie (William) Porter, Ray Gustafson, Shirlee (Jim) Willis, Terri Lau, Toni (Jim) Schramm, Trudi (Carlos) Cabrera, and Tracy (Linda) Fisher. Great-grandchildren Shannynne, Mark, and Jordan Burkhalter, Kelly, Kasey, and Kammy Fisher, and Shelby, Kaitlin, and Tristin Morgan, and step-great-grandchildren Robert Gillette, Heidi and Holly Schramm, Sarah, Nicole, and Dustin Cabrera, Shaunna and Danielle Fisher, and Linda Gustafson. Also by a sister-in-law and nephews.
Following private interment a reception for family, friends and neighbors will be held at the home of Kathi and David Burkhalter. Call for information: 310-375-3715.
Helen was a very special lady. We last visited with her on Monday, Feb. 24, at Torrance Memorial Hospital. She was in great spirits, looked just wonderful and we shared a few laughs with her. We will always remember her beautiful smile. Our hearts and prayers are with the family at this sad time. Darlene & Erald Choate