Helen Rathbun

Helen Rathbun, Grandma and Mom to most, was born Dec. 27, 1934 in Big River, Alaska to Gleman and Martha Easi. She attended school at Wrangell Institute.

Helen enjoyed spending her time at the American Legion Post 35 with her friends and best friend Eva. She enjoyed being on the road, camping and berry picking. She also enjoyed watching her grandchildren compete at World Eskimo Indian Olympics and Native Youth Olympics. She enjoyed playing bingo with her friends and family. She enjoyed summers in McGrath sitting with friends at Joe’s and McGuire’s. When she was at home she would spend time listening to classic country music and crocheting.

Helen passed away March 2 at her home in Wasilla.

Helen was preceded in death by her husband, Calvin, daughter Michelle, step-son Robert and sons Forest and Einar. Helen is survived by her children, Carol, Martha, Herman, Stella, Donne, Jo, John, Nina and Matthew, her step-children, Richard, Randy and Ronald. She had 12 children and four step-children, over 27 grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren.

At her request there will be no service. There will be a celebration of life at Susitna Valley American Legion Post 35 in Wasilla on Thursday at 1 p.m. A potluck will follow the service. A celebration of life will also be held in McGrath at a later date.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Hasara Family at the Cremation Society of Alaska. Online guestbook: www.alaskacremation.com.