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Helen Elsbernd, age 78, died on Thursday, November 20, 2008 in Auburn, CA, of natural causes. Helen was born in East St. Louis, IL, on June 9, 1930 to Manuel and Anita Gonzalez. She had fond memories of growing up among an extended family of grandparents, uncles and aunts, who all lived nearby. After marrying Arnold Anthony Elsbernd in 1953, they moved frequently, as Arnold was an officer in the Air Force. They lived in many different states, from Georgia to California to Wyoming to Texas, while raising a family of four boys and assorted pets. Helen managed many of their moves and adventures on her own, as Arnold was frequently called away to duty. Once the boys were out of the house she continued to "mother" them, inquiring about their welfare and making sure they wore enough warm clothing. She also enjoyed traveling, both within the United States and in Europe to countries such as Spain, Germany and Sweden. Helen and Arnold settled in Albuquerque, NM for retirement. Helen would feed the birds and hummingbirds and occasional a wild tortoise, while enjoying the sweeping vistas of the Sandia Mountains. Bridge with Arnold and friends was a favorite activity. As a Roman Catholic, church was very important and not to be missed even when traveling. When Arnold passed away, Helen moved to Rocklin and then to Auburn, CA to be close to her son Roy and his wife Debbie. Helen is survived by her four children, David, Richard, Roy, and Brian; her brother Julio Gonzalez and her sister Amelia (Lou) Dudley, grandchildren Rachel, Audrey, Thomas, Sarah, Kira, Corinne, Brian Jr., Cierrah and Joseph, and seven great-grandchildren. A Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, December 2, 2008 at 11:30 a.m., at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in Rio Rancho, NM, followed by burial at Santa Fe National Cemetery. Arrangements are being handled by French Mortuary, Inc. in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Please visit our online guest book for Helen at RememberTheirStory.com French 9300 Golf Course Rd. NW (505) 897-0300
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