Obituary: Helen Marie (Spickerman) Elton, 100, The Dalles

Helen Marie (Spickerman) Elton passed peacefully in her sleep on December 1, 2023.  She was born on December 28, 1922, and would have been 101.  Helen was born at home to George and Grace Spickerman in the Dalles, Oregon, and was a lifelong resident.  She had two younger sisters, Shirley Sawyer and Donna Pengra.  In 1940, she was chosen to be the first Cherry Queen, representing the cherry industry of The Dalles. 

Among the highlights of that year was her ride on the float in the Rose Parade of Portland, Oregon.  Locally,  she also attended the dedication of Thompson Park and the burying of the time capsule there.  Helen also had her picture taken on the Queen of Romania’s throne at the Maryhill Museum.  In 1943, Helen married her high school sweetheart, Bill Elton of this city.  They had three children, Shari Thompson, Ronald Elton, and Diane Cates, raising them on the family cherry farm on Pleasant Ridge Road.  In her younger years, Helen had a hobby of detailed and intricate painting of ceramic figurines.  She also enjoyed sewing and trying new recipes.  A dedicated homemaker, Helen was a good housekeeper.  One of her greatest joys in life was to put on the coffee pot and visit with dear friends and family. 

Having grown up in Calvary Baptist Church, she taught Sunday School and served on various committees.  She faithfully continued her Christian service throughout her life, one of which was her dedication to serving her family.  Survivors include her sister Shirley, her three children, twelve grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren.  Helen was preceded in death by an infant brother, James Robert, her stillborn baby girl, her parents, her husband, and her sister Donna.   A graveside service and family memorial gathering will be scheduled at a later date.

Spencer, Libby, and Powell Funeral Home are in the care of her arrangements.