Helene Phifer Obituary

Helene Teresa Marie Fedoruk Phifer went to be with her Lord on August 25, 2010. Born on January 5, 1921, Helene spent the first years of her life in Montreal, Canada. Her Russian- born father, Vladimir Fedoruk, and mother Laurie Girard, a French Canadian, moved shortly thereafter to Detroit, Michigan, becoming US citizens. Helene lived life to the fullest, with flair and zeal. She will be tenderly remembered by her family and friends, who loved her dearly. Helene married Warren Phifer in 1989. Together with Warren, she enjoyed sights from New Zealand to Japan, and invested her time joyfully in causes dear to her heart: the Salvation Army Christmas Stocking Drive, the Republican Forum, Young Life, Christian Women's Club and in anyone needing a helping hand. Helene was a very athletic young lady. Excelling as an equestrian in both English and Western riding, she was also on her school's championship swimming team. She loved dancing to the tunes of the Big Bands of the 30's and 40's at the famous Roseland in Detroit, Michigan, and she continued to dance throughout her sunset years. Fondly known as the “Hat Lady� among her many friends and acquaintances, Helene loved hats and had a beautiful one for any occasion. Always ready with a witty quip about her hat, she delighted those who knew her with her sharp sense of humor. Helene charmed many with her sparkling blue eyes, radiant smile, Russian Christmas dinners, yearly Praline Sauce birthday gifts, beloved patio garden (where every rock & fountain has a story), generous hospitality, and spunky conversation. In her later years, she traveled extensively as a representative of Tupperware International. Her talent to inspire people through her lectures brought her back often to many locations where people enthusiastically attended all of her seminars. She loved her audience, and they loved her. Helene asked the Lord into her life in her early 20's, and was a devout Christian the remainder of her life. A member of First Presbyterian Church, she was loved by the Lord and shared her love with many others. She is survived by her husband Warren, her daughter Melody and son-in-law William Fischer, of Colorado Springs, her two brothers, Ted and Robert Fedoruk, and their families; by her adopted family, David Phifer, of Denver, and Ruth Tepley, of Colorado Springs, and their children and grandchildren. We will see you in heaven, Darling, where all tears are wiped away. In lieu of flowers, a charitable gift to the Salvation Army or First Presbyterian Church would be appreciated. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the First Presbyterian Church on Wednesday, September 8, 2010 at 2:00 pm. Please visit www.memorialgardensfuneralhome.com for additional information.