Alice Jean (Peterson) Helmken

Alice Jean "AJ" Helmken, a faith-filled, loving, and kind woman, passed away on March 26, 2023, at Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis. Born on March 22, 1947, in Michigan City, IN, Alice dedicated her life to her family, her work, and her community.

On May 11, 2002, in La Porte, IN, Alice married the love of her life, Stephen Joseph Helmken, who survives her. Together, they created a beautiful life filled with love and laughter. Alice is also survived by her sister, Cathy L. (Jim) Underkoffler née Peterson of Indianapolis, IN; brother, Robin G. Peterson of Custer, WI; three nieces, Lauren (Laban) Runyon, Katy (Brandon) Meier, and Lisa (Jacob) Hill; and nephew, Eric Helmken. She was preceded in death by her parents, Glendon M. and Dorothy E. (Platt) Peterson.

Alice was a dedicated and hardworking employee at the Michigan City Department of Water Works, where she served as a head cashier and billing administrator. Her commitment to her work was evident in her attention to detail and her unwavering support for her colleagues. Alice's professionalism and kindness left a lasting impact on those who had the pleasure of working with her.

A woman of strong faith, Alice was an active member of the First United Methodist Church in Michigan City. Her devotion to her faith was evident in her involvement in various church activities and her willingness to lend a helping hand whenever needed. Alice's faith-filled life was an inspiration to all who knew her.

AJ was also a proud and dedicated member of several organizations, including the La Porte Chapter #280 Order of the Eastern Star and served as past matron of the Lake Michigan Chapter #98 Order of the Eastern Star.  She honorably served the Eastern Star for 50 years. AJ's commitment to these organizations demonstrated her passion for service and her desire to make a positive impact on her community.

In addition to her involvement in the Eastern Star, Alice was a member of the Michiana Lions Club, where she worked tirelessly to support the club's mission of empowering volunteers to serve their communities. Her dedication to service was further exemplified by her role as a docent at Washington Park Zoo in Michigan City. Alice's love for animals, especially the backyard visitors, was well-known among her friends and family, and her work at the zoo allowed her to share that love with others.

Alice was a floral designer for over 10 years with Wrights Flowers and Joy of Flowers, both in Michigan City.  She had a special talent for arranging flowers, which she often used to brighten the lives of those around her. Her beautiful arrangements brought joy to countless people and served as a testament to her creativity and her generous spirit.

In her personal life, Alice was known for her loving nature and her unwavering kindness. She had a unique ability to make everyone around her feel special and loved, and her presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

As we remember Alice Jean Helmken, let us celebrate her life and the many ways in which she touched the lives of those around her. Her faith-filled spirit, her loving heart, and her kind soul will live on in the memories of her family, friends, and community members.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, April 3, 2023 at First United Methodist Church of Michigan City with Pastor Nancy Nichols and Pastor Phil Emerson officiating.  Burial will follow at Pinhook Cemetery.

A time of visitation will be held from 2 - 6 p.m. on Sunday, April 2, 2023 at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center.  At 3 p.m. an Eastern Star Memorial Service will be held.  Later, at 5 p.m., a Lions Memorial Service will be held.  Visitation directly preceding the service on Monday, will be held at 10 a.m. at the church.

Memorial donations may be made to the Washington Park Zoological Society, 115 Lake Shore Drive, Michigan City, IN 46360; First United Methodist Church of Michigan City, 121 E. 7th St., Michigan City, IN 46360; IN Lions Speech and Hearing, Inc. or the IN Lions Diabetes Foundation, checks to be made out to "District 25 A" with "Speech" or "Diabetes" on memo line, mailed to 3017 Benders St., Portage, IN 46368.

Condolences may be shared with the family on www.cutlerfuneralhome.com.

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