Helen Lorene Norden

Helen L. Norden, 97, of Hartford passed away Aug. 25, 2020, at the home of her daughter and son-in-law where she had resided for several years. Helen remained active, but at a slower pace, and “in charge” until just a few days before her death.

A private graveside service will be held for immediate family at Maple Hill Cemetery with Pastor Stephanie Norton officiating.

Helen was born, raised, and resided in the Hartford area her entire life; she was a proud graduate of Hartford High School, class of 1940. Life was not always easy with the Great Depression and the death of her first husband, Robert Swinford, in the Battle of the Bulge during World War II. She was a young widow with a daughter, Connie. Life changed in 1949 when she married a local farmer, Ken Norden, who was a widower with two young sons: Tom and David. A new family unit was formed. Ken passed away in 1998.

Helen was a hard working farm wife helping Ken in many ways; for years they raised and stored potatoes and delivered 10 - 20 pound bags to many small stores in the area.

Helen made and maintained many friendships through various groups: a “Kitchen Band” in the 50’s, “Bunco club,” Van Auken Ladies Pleasure Club, Van Buren Co Buggy Club, Hartford Federated Church, Township election worker, Red Hat Club, North Berrien Senior Center, Van Buren Senior Services lunch/bingo, and America Chapter #234 Order of Eastern Star.

Most folks found her easy to be with and easy to love. She will be dearly missed by her children; grandchildren; great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Surviving children include: Thomas (Chris) Norden, Connie (Bob) Kilburn and David Norden; all of Hartford.

II Timothy 4:7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

Memorial donations may be directed to Hartford Bible Church, PO Box 6, Hartford or Hartford United Methodist Church, 425 E Main St, Hartford 49057.

The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with arrangements. Those wishing to leave memorial condolences may do so at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.

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