Helen Rae Mabes

Helen Rae Mabes was born on March 21, 1938, in Oklahoma, one of nine children of Lester and Ruel Dawson. She went to be with our Lord and Savior Sunday, June 27, 2010, at age 72. She had lived in the Wenatchee area since she was three years old, so she considered herself a Washingtonian. February, 1961, she and Orville Mabes were married. After only four and a half years of marriage, Orville was severely injured on the job and was almost completely paralyzed. Although she had the responsibility of caring for him 24 hours a day for 20 plus years, he was a strong steady force in the lives of their two children, Tamara and Larry. He could not have had a more faithful, loving caregiver. True to her name, which means light or torch burner, her house had a swinging door and her kitchen light was always on. Many people have come to know the Lord through her concern. She was very much a homebody, enjoyed gardening, canning, and cooking (her favorite was fried chicken). She favored western music and game shows on TV and we cannot forget Ichiro, her favorite Seattle Mariner! Helen was preceded in death by her father and mother, Les and Ruel Dawson; her husband, Orville Mabes; two brothers, RL Dawson and Henry Dawson; and three sisters, Opal Smith, Mildred Dawson and Dorothy Dawson. She is survived by one brother, Donnie Dawson; two sisters, Ruth Holm and Dora Dawson; two children, Larry Farley and Tammy Meyers; four grandchildren, Danielle Laumbert, Deva Farley, Ericka Miranda and Aubrie Meyers; along with many step-grandchildren; nieces and nephews. Her hobbies involved some of her closest friends, who she loved dearly, Vicki Hansen, Barb Riddle, Betty Thomas, Ronica Dailey and Jan Heideman. They have gotten together for over 36 years, to play canasta, dominoes and other card games, along with fellowship after church and many special occasions. Along with the get-togethers, came all of the food. Her fried apple pies were one of their favorites! She loved everyone around her and her house would welcome them with open arms. So many people and memories to mention, but all were very special and dear to her heart. We will never forget you, Granny, we love you! Visitation for Helen will be Friday, July 2, 2010, from 12:30 to 5:00 p.m., at Telford's Chapel of the Valley, East Wenatchee. A Graveside Service will begin at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, July 3, 2010, at Evergreen Memorial Park, 1301 10th Street N.E., East Wenatchee, WA. Arrangements are by Telford's Chapel of the Valley, East Wenatchee, WA.

Helen Rae Mabes

March 21, 1938 - June 27, 2010