COLUMBUS
Helen J. Carman of Columbus, IN passed on November 23 at the age of 96 and is now resting in the comforting arms of her everlasting Savior. She was born in Chicago on December 21, 1924 to Julius and Frances Mathes. Helen was the youngest daughter in a family of four girls and three boys.
As a young woman, Helen worked for American Airlines and was a secretary for Exide Battery. During her free time, she enjoyed time at the Dunes and hiking with her outdoor club. Helen listened to big bands and volunteered at the Servicemen’s Center (later becoming the USO) near Naval Station Great Lakes.
On July 22, 1948, Helen married Albert Carman and moved to the family farm, east of what is now Otter Creek Golf Course. They were married for 36 years. After his death in 1984, Helen continued to live on the family farm.
Helen later went to work for Bartholomew County Schools as a baker at Rockcreek Elementary School, combining her enjoyment of baking and love for serving the children. Helen was also active in the union, representing the bakers in contract negotiations with the district. Some years later, Helen along with her son Tim moved into town.
Helen was involved with children’s ministries, teaching Children’s Church and helping with Vacation Bible School. Upon high school graduation it had been her dream to attend college and become a school teacher; however, the Great Depression and family priorities prevented it. Children’s ministries gave her the opportunity to not only ‘teach’ but to share the Gospel in creative ways with young children. She was generous with her time, spending many Saturdays laying out the lesson plans and materials to ensure that the Bible stories came alive for the children.
Helen spent much time in the Word and, for many years, participated in Thursday morning Ladies Bible Study. The group had a strong bond, sisters in Christ.
Helen loved to travel, visiting nearly every state including Alaska and Hawaii. She often reminisced about her trip to Alaska, the adventures of eating fresh salmon, hearing Eskimo children sing, and flying with her friend in a 4-seater plane into the pristine remote wilderness.
Helen was also a great cook. She loved baking and, especially at Christmas, threw herself into baking a wide variety of cookies to share with family and friends. As an avid gardener, Helen enjoyed growing beautiful flowers. She definitely had a green thumb! It’s no wonder that her favorite hymn was ‘In the Garden’.
Helen is survived by two children, Frances Carman of Indianapolis and Cheryl Carman Roberts of San Diego. Her son, Timothy Carman was called to his eternal home on March of 2020. Helen also has two grandsons, Christopher Roberts in Texas and Jonathan Roberts in California as well as three great-grandchildren, Colby, Nicole and Ava.
Helen was close to her siblings: Raymond, Martha, Florence, Emogene, Julius Jr. and William, all of which have preceded her. Helen has many beloved nieces and nephews.
Funeral service will be 10 a.m. Thursday, December 2, 2021 at Light of Life Lutheran Church, 2234 Sheek Rd. Greenwood, IN, with Pastor Scott Miller officiating. Burial will follow at Garland Brook Cemetery.
Visitation will be from 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. Wednesday, December 1, 2021 at Myers-Reed Chapel.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Helen’s name to Paws &Think in Indianapolis, www.pawsandthink.org.
Please leave a fond memory of Helen or a condolence for the family at www.Myers-Reed.com
Myers-Reed Chapel is serving the Carman family.
