Helen Louise Mezzano

OSHKOSH, Wis. — Helen Louise (nee Bale) Mezzano, 78, passed away on Saturday, Sept. 28, 2013, at Aurora Medical Center in Oshkosh.

Helen was born in Montcalm County, Mich., on Sept. 23, 1935, to Frank and Mary (Backman) Bale. She moved to Ironwood, Mich., as a youngster and attended Ironwood public schools, graduating from Luther L. Wright High School in 1953. She was married to Joseph Mezzano on Sept. 10, 1955, in Superior. They were happily married for 58 years.

At different times in her life, Helen worked at various jobs helping out as her husband attended college. Nevertheless, Helen’s main career, which she exceled at, was motherhood and homemaking. Proof of this can be seen in her four strong and successful sons and their beautiful families. As good a mother as she was, she was an even better grandmother.

Helen’s hobbies included bowling, playing bridge, watching old movies, and attending every sporting, musical and scholastic event involving her children and grandchildren. Helen was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Oshkosh. She served on the Altar Society, and was the director of the Young at Heart senior citizens group.

Helen is survived by and will be missed by her husband, Joseph; her sons, Frank (Pam) Mezzano, Oshkosh, Gene (Cynthia) Mezzano, Las Vegas, Thomas (Jeannie) Mezzano, Jacksonville, Fla., and Mick (Lori Liebe) Mezzano, Oshkosh; her brothers, James (Joan) Bale, Ironwood, and Robert (Cathy) Bale, Wakefield, Mich., six grandchildren, Adam, Melissa (James), Mary (Barbee), Michael, Murphie and MacKensie; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, John Bale and Tuffy Bale; sister, Mary Bale Perlberg; sister-in-law, Barbara Lane Bale; brother-in-law, Vic Perlberg; and infant granddaughter, Heather.

A private family memorial service was held per Helen’s wishes.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in Helen’s name. Contributions may be sent to the family.

The Lord is my Shepherd; I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.