Helen Rose Hirschi Pugsley 1923 ~ 2009 ROSETTE, UTAH- Our beloved angel mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, age 85, died at the home of daughter, Linda, who had lovingly cared for her there the past four years. A true pioneer, who passed away July 24th, she is together again with her sweetheart, Rex, who died July 23, 1978. Born to Albert David and Josie Carter Hirschi November 2, 1923, she spent most of her life in Rosette (Park Valley), Utah. Helen graduated from the Little Red School House in Park Valley and attended Box Elder High School, graduating with honors. She received a degree from LDS Business College and worked at First Security Bank in Brigham City. Helen married Rex Roy Pugsley February 7, 1944, in the Salt Lake Temple. The next day they departed for the East Coast, where Rex was stationed during World War II. After the war, they settled in Rosette, where they raised seven children on a cattle ranch. Mothering and grandmothering were her life's work, laboring with her family on the ranch. After Rex died in a tragic accident at an early age, Helen ran the ranch with the help of her family. She loved to garden, growing beautiful flowers and tasty vegetables. Helen was an expert seamstress and created beautiful handiwork. She was the world's best cook and enjoyed reading, especially to her grandchildren. Helen was active in the LDS Church, serving in all the auxiliaries. For six years, she was a Teacher's Aide in the Park Valley School. Helen leaves behind seven children: Virgil (Marie), Bruce (Debbie), Linda (Tom) Abbott, David (Susie), Pam (Ron) Adamson, Wayne (Sally), Kenny (Leisa); 33 grandchildren and 49 great-grandchildren. Also survived by three sisters: Fern (Byron) Hunsaker, Betty (Earl) Harris, and LaNoma Taylor and sister-in-law Deon Hirschi. Preceded in death by her husband Rex, parents, brothers, Dee C. and Curtis, sister, Ledah and great-grandchildren, Hailey and Stacey. Funeral services Saturday, August 1, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. in the Park Valley Chapel. Viewing Friday, July 31, 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Rogers & Taylor Funeral Home, 111 North 100 East, Tremonton, Utah, and in the Park Valley Chapel from 9:30-10:30 a.m. prior to the service. Interment in Park Valley Cemetery. The family would like to thank Vista Care Hospice for the loving service provided, especially Tania and Marie. Also, thanks to all family members who cared for Helen. On-line condolences may be expressed at www.rogersandtaylor.com
Published in the Deseret News on 7/29/2009