Helen M. (Vallner) Hanko

Helen Mary Hanko, age 93, passed away Monday, August 24, 2009, at Wheaton Franciscan All Saints Medical Center. She was born in Racine on October 13, 1915, daughter of the late George and Agnes (Nee: Gerlesits) Vallner and was a lifelong resident of Racine.

On December 26, 1934, she was united in marriage to Robert E. Hanko who preceded her in death October 28, 1994. Helen was a member of St. Richard’s Catholic Church and was an avid gardener. She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. It was her grandchildren that she cherished and gave her the most joy these past years. She will be dearly missed.

Surviving are her daughter, Helen Schilg; son, Robert P. (Helen) Hanko; nine grandchildren, Walter (Diane) Schilg, Veronica (Robert) Struebing, Monica (John) Quarto, Rebecca (Todd) Mitchell, Theresa Phrakousonh, Angela (Ruben) Amaya, Robert J. Hanko Jr., Scott Hanko, Debbie Hanko; 17 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; three sisters, Agnes (Richard) Bentson, Theresa Ruediger and Rosemary Pederson; a brother, Edward (Evie) Vallner; other relatives and dear friends. In addition to her parents and husband she was preceded in death by five brothers, Joseph, who was killed in action during WWII, Steven, Martin, Peter, Paul and George.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, August 28, 2009, at 11 a.m. at St. Richard’s Catholic Church, 1503 Grand Ave., with Reverend Ron Gramza officiating. Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet with the family Friday at the church from 10 a.m. until time of service.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine (262) 634-7888