Helen was born May 5, 1925 in Cowley, Wyoming to John and Elizabeth Winterholler. Helen was one of 4 siblings. When Helen turned 18 she moved out west to San Francisco, CA. She was employed at the San Francisco Naval Shipyard where she met the love of her life Robert Kirkpatrick. They married on July 28, 1947. On January 2, 1949 they were blessed with their only daughter Janet Kirkpatrick.

Helen and Robert enjoyed spending their time traveling the world. Helen loved to host her close friends with many dinner parties and playing cards at her house in Daly City. Helen enjoyed watching 49ers and Giants play ball. Although her favorite activity was taking her daughter and two grandsons on many traveling adventures. Helen had a creative side to her, and she enjoyed beading jewelry, where she made many beautiful pieces for her friends and family. Helen appreciated the finer things in life although she was always looking for a bargain. She could make friends with anyone she met. She enjoyed her volunteer work throughout the years as she was very active with the Golden Gate Chapter No.1 Order of the Eastern Star San Francisco. She held many positions throughout the organization. She retired from a career at UCSF and in 2006 moved to Vacaville to be closer to family.

Helen is proceeded in death by her husband Robert; parents John and Elizabeth; siblings Harold, Dorothy, and Bob; and daughter Janet. Helen is survived by her grandsons Mathieu Bianchini (wife Cindee); Jeffrey McCoy (wife Liz) Great grandchildren Mathieu and Mason Bianchini and Riley and Addison McCoy.

A memorial service will be held at the Golden Gate National Cemetery October 27, 2023 at 11:00am 1300 Sneath Lane San Bruno, CA.

Death leaves a memory no one can heal; love leaves a memory no one can steal. Until we meet again.