Helen C. (Tripidi) BURRELL October 7, 1907 - July 21, 2002 A woman who embodied the philosophy that "it's the journey, not the destination" and who lived a full, rich adventurous life passed away peacefully in her beloved West Seattle home on July 21. Born in San Francisco 94 years ago, Helen arrived in Seattle in 1926, living first in Queen Anne and later Madison Park. In 1941 she and husband Leland Stark built a home over looking Puget Sound in West Seattle. They shared an active, sport filled life. She later married John W. Burrell and they became active in the West Seattle Fraternal Order of Eagles, the American Legion, and in Puget Sound's boating community. Helen was an award-winning rose garden er; a respected fencing champion; a gifted quilter and embroiderer; a speed-boat racer; and an accomplished skier. She was the first woman in the Pacific Northwest to be entered into National Ski Patrol, and was a founding member of the Snoqualmie Pass Ski Patrol. Helen loved people and many loved her. She provided a welcoming engaging pres ence that touched many she knew. She also loved animals, both wild and domestic. Many found their way daily to her patio for breakfast and dinner. Helen Burrell was a 52 year member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Past Madam President, and a member of the Eagle's marching drill team. She was a longtime member of the Associated Grandmother Clubs of Wash ington; a 32 year member of the American Legion Auxiliary; and active in the Alzheimer's Association Support Group, Western Chapter. Helen had a full professional life. Widely known for her culinary skill, she prepared delicious dishes in many restaurants throughout Seattle, and on the Kalakala during its tenure in Puget Sound. She operated her own catering business and was a professional floral arranger. She also was one of the first female production supervisors for the Boeing Corporation, retiring there in 1970. Helen possessed an active independent spirit. Proud of her Italian heritage, she had a zest for life, intent on squeezing out every drop. Just days before her passing she was spotted riding in an open convertible along Alki Beach. Helen was exceptionally generous and offered an open loving heart. She could be strong- willed, feisty, and delightfully humorous. She is survived by her brother Louis Tripidi of Los Altos, CA.; niece Lois Rebottaro and grand niece Susan Rebotta ro of Petaluma, CA., grand nephew Tom Rebottaro of Lenexa, KS.; stepson John W. Burrell and brother and sister-in-law Robert and Evelyn Hannon of West Seat tle, step grandson Todd Bartz of Kirkland; and many nephews, nieces, cousins and others. She is also survived by a large loving "adoptive family" of neighbors and friends in West Seattle. The family is grateful for the excellent assistance provided by Highline Home Care Services, especially Debra Roe, RN. Special appreciation is also extended to Jaci Kimmel, CNA of Help Unlimited. A Memorial Service for Helen will be held in Seattle at Evergreen-Washelli Chapel, 11111 Aurora Ave. N. on Sunday, July 28 at 2:00 p.m. A reception will follow at the Chapel. Remembrances may be made in Helen's name to the Alzheimer's Associa tion, Western Chapter, 12721 30th Ave. N.E. Seattle, WA. 98125. Jul 24, 2002 Seattle Times