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Helander --
Doris Elizabeth Helander passed away on October 7, 2002 at age 89 in Scottsdale, Arizona. She was a longtime resident of Albuquerque from 1966 to August 2000. She is survived by her husband, Melvin Helander, who still resides in Scottsdale, Arizona. Doris Helander was born January 18, 1913 to Benjamin McCurtain and Clara Hagood in Durant, Oklahoma. She graduated with a bachelors degree from Southeastern State Teachers College, July 21, 1933. She was a school teacher at the Zuni, Window Rock, and Wingate Indian Schools from 1933 to 1956. Doris and Melvin met in Zuni and were married on August 19, 1937 and celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary this year. Because Mr. Helander worked for the Department of Interior, they lived throughout the West: Washington, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico and Arizona. In addition to teaching school, Doris was a published author of more than 50 stories and articles in various magazines. Doris loved books, knowledge, and music. She obtained her library science degree from the University of Southern California in 1957. Doris had many interests; she was an artist, organist, and geneologist. She researched and wrote a book on her family's history as well as researching Melvin Helander's family history traveling to Finland and discovering aunts, uncles and cousins. Doris was a Presbyterian and throughout her life her faith was important to her, attending church regularly. Doris and Melvin traveled extensively throughout the world and lived for a time in Tripoli, Libya, North Africa from 1952 to 1954. She loved to travel and was always interested in people from other cultures. She was a devoted wife and mother who lived life to its fullest. She is survived by her husband, Melvin Helander; two daughters, Mrs. Betty Hammons of Anthem, Arizona and Mrs. Claire Duren of Portland, Oregon; five grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren. She had a long and happy life and will be held forever close in the hearts of those who love her.
Published on: Sun October 27, 2002
