Obituary of Helen Manthou

Helen Manthou Beloved mother and grandmother, passed away January 24th at the age of 85. Born in Chicago, she lived the last 60 years with her family in Tacoma. During this time she married Mathew Manthou who preceded her in death, and lovingly raised Chris (Susan), Spiro (Sandy), Frank (Judi) and Heidi Gilbert (Orv) and always regarded her many nieces and nephews from Chicago and California as her own, including Tacoma natives, Fran Manthou and Rene Rosi. She loved children especially her nine grandchildren and cherished her time spent as a volunteer helping struggling young readers. Mom touched many lives by often treating others to her delicious Greek baked goods. She retired from Tacoma Public Utilities where she worked in customer service. Mom was a proud, devoted member of Holy Resurrection Church and St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church where she spent many volunteer hours as the dance director of the children's dance group. She had a passion for lifetime learning and was active with a variety of interests including playing golf, watching old movies, learning the guitar, flute, Spanish, drawing and writing an autobiography. Family and friends will miss her love, loyalty, fairness, thoughtfulness and outspoken opinions. Helen is at peace with Mathew. Trisagion Vigil will be held 6:00 PM, Sunday, January 30, at Piper-Morley-Mellinger Funeral Chapel. Funeral service will be held 11:00 AM , Monday, January 31, at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church. Donations can be made to either Holy Resurrection Church or St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church of Tacoma.