Helen Ann Gruss

Our loving mother and grandmother Helen Ann Gruss lived life to its fullest having reached the age of 103, passed peacefully on February 14, 2022 at her home in Royal Oak, Michigan.

Life for Helen began in Detroit on December 14, 1918, born to Hungarian-Austrian immigrants, Andrew and Mary Droptiny. She was destined to be the last living child of 13 siblings.

Helen grew up in Pinconning and graduated in 1941 from the Bay City College of Cosmetology. She returned to Detroit where she opened a modest salon. By 1945, Helen had both a growing family and business. After relocating from Highland Park and later to Ferndale, Helena Salon was recognized by the Woodward Action Association for being one of “Detroit’s Oldest Women-owned Business” located on Woodward Ave. After several attempts she finally decided to retire at the age of 81.

Over the years, Helen and Al frequently made trips up north to spend time on their farm and visit family. She enjoyed; singing in the church choir, competing in the ladies bowling league, swimming laps and cheering on the Detroit Tigers. She was a sharp card player as well, winning at Euchre and Rummy. She will be fondly remembered for her extraordinary harmonica skills.

Helen was a generous and thoughtful soul, always true to her faith in God and love of family and friends. She is survived by her 3 daughters; Norma (Frank) Sundrla, Mary Tsouris, Antonia Shad and step daughters; Angela (Robin) Young and Barbara (John) Glodowski; cherished grandmother of 14, proud great-grandmother of 19, adored great-great-grandmother of 10, beloved aunt, great-aunt, cousin and friend to many of whom are still residing in her home town of Pinconning and the Bay County area.
Helen is predeceased by her husband Albert Gruss and 13 siblings; Paul, Martin, Julia, Sam, Mike, Dorothy, Margaret, Susie, John, Adam, Mary, George, and Andy.

Receiving family and friends at a Funeral Mass Service Thursday, April 7, 2022, 10am - Christ Our Light Catholic Church, 3077 Glouchester, Troy, MI. A Memorial Service to be held Saturday, May 7, 2022, Noon-2pm at Lee-Ramsey funeral home 107 E. Second St., Pinconning, MI. Followed by interment at Pinconning Township Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in her name to: https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org

Post expressions of sympathy and shared memories online at https://www.desmondfuneralhome.com

Lee-Ramsay Funeral Home, Pinconning, MI, was in charge of arrangements.

The Pinconning Journal

110 E. 3rd St.
PO Box 626
Pinconning, MI 48650

Office Number: 989-879-3811
Regular Office Hours:
Monday-Thursday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm,
Friday Closed
 

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