Helen Tripp

Helen Louise Tripp, 83, of Cape Girardeau, formerly of House Springs, Mo., died Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2010, at Fountainbleau Lodge in Cape Girardeau.

She was born Sept. 27, 1926, in Philipsburg, Mont., daughter of Carl John and Sarah Gorman Swanson.

Helen graduated from Philipsburg High School. After graduating, she worked for Boeing Aircraft in Seattle as one of the Rosie the Riveters during World War II.

She was married to Oliver Jerome Tripp on Jan. 14, 1945. He died in August 1980.

She was a member of the House Springs American Legion and VFW Auxiliary.

Helen is survived by two sons, Carl J. Tripp of Branson, Mo., Clifford J. Tripp of New Castle, Del.; one daughter, Sharon A. Hecht of Jackson; six grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandson.

Visitation will be from 4 until 8 p.m. today at Cracraft-Miller Funeral Home in Jackson with a prayer service at 7 p.m. led by the Rev. Kevin Olson.

Graveside service will be held Saturday, Jan. 9, at Russell Heights Cemetery in Jackson, with the Rev. Kevin Olson officiating.

Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.