Helena and the Polsons

Helena became apart of the Polson family sometime in 2007 or 2008...not sure when. Helena and my Dad, Randall, and Dad's siblings, Elton, Ken, Mabel and Emily grew up together in Waterville. After high school, Dad and Helena each went on to marry life-long partners that raised a "boat load" of kids and grandkids. After my mom, Barbara, and Helena's husband, Bill, passed away, Dad and Helena reconnected. They became inseparable and split their time between Dad's home in California and Elton's ranch in Waterville. They eventually married in 2008 and spent Dad's last few years of his life together. They developed a special love based upon childhood memories, sharing each others histories, companionship and laughter. They also helped each other through various health issues. They supported each other. Helena was with Dad when his heart finally gave out. Even though we kids weren't there, we know that she helped him pass away peacefully. And that is a great comfort.

Helena was a lovely, lovely lady. She was a sweet and kind. A certain light in Dad's life went out when my mom died. Helena re-ignited it. She made him smile again and we, the Polson kids, thank her for that.

I also understand she made a "mean" beef stroganoff. Would love the recipe.

Rest in Peace, Helena. And forever Happy Birthday.

On behalf of the entire Polson family...

Lovingly,
Carell Polson Sheehan

Helena Florence (Wilson) Fuller was born May 30, 1926 in Waterville WA.
She attended grades 1-12 in Waterville. After High School, Helena went to Stephens College in Columbia, MO for 2 years before enrolling in Washington State College and earning her Bachelor's Degree in Fine Art.
While at WSC, she met her husband, Willard C (Bill) Fuller and they were married in 1947.
The Fullers moved to Colville, WA with their young daughters where Bill owned and operated Fuller Drug Company and later managed Pinewood Nursing Home.
Helena was very active in the community as a member St John's Episcopal Church and many other civic and social organizations.
After retirement, Helena and Bill moved to Harstene Island (Shelton, WA) to be near family.
After Bill's passing in 2007, Helena reconnected with her lifelong friend, Randal Polson. They married in 2008 and spent the next 3 years happily remembering their years growing up in Waterville. Randal passed in 2011.
Helena spent her last years as a resident of Silver Creek Retirement Center in Puyallup where she was well-loved by staff and residents alike.
Helena is survived by 2 daughters - Helena C (Connie) Dennert of O'Fallon, IL and Nancy E Wohrle of Puyallup, WA - 9 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.
There will be a private family gathering to celebrate Helena's life.