Helen Marie (Kero) Trojahn

HURLEY, Wis. - Helen Marie (Kero) Trojahn, 100, of Hurley, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Nov. 28, 2024, at the Villa Maria Health and Rehabilitation Center in Hurley, with her loving family at her side.

Helen was born in Saxon to Emil and Senia Kero. She was one of seven children raised on the farm and graduated from Saxon High School. She married John Trojahn in 1944 and lived on a dairy farm in Erwin Township, Michigan, where they raised their four daughters. They moved to Arizona in 1967, where she spent the next 52 years. Returning to Hurley in 2019, she lived with her daughters and her granddaughter, Jennifer Santini, on her farm.

Helen found her joy surrounded by family and friends throughout her life. Her home was a gathering place where everyone was welcome. She never met a stranger and was always up for a new adventure.

Helen attributed her long life to Finnish sisu (strength and stoic determination). A cup of black coffee and something sweet was a must at 3 p.m. every day with friends and family via Facetime or in person.

Helen is survived by her four daughters, Kathy (Danny) Santini, Sue Hanaway, Bonnie Rogers and Tammy Matthews; a brother, Arne (Susie) Kero; 11 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; 10 great-great-grandchildren; eight nephews and 10 nieces.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John; a grandson; three brothers and two sisters.

Out of respect for Helen's wishes, cremation has taken place and a celebration of her life will be held at a later date.

The family would like to thank Villa Maria for the excellent care its staff gave our mother during her time there.

Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, Michigan, is assisting the family with arrangements. To send online condolences or to share a memory, please go to lakesidememorialchapel.com.