Coping with Grief
We would like to offer our sincere support to anyone coping with grief. Enter your email below for our complimentary daily grief messages. Messages run for up to one year and you can stop at any time. Your email will not be used for any other purpose.
In Loving Memory of Helen Frances Plys
We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved mother, Helen Frances Plys (nee Trankulov), age 89. Helen passed away peacefully on April 10, 2026,
leaving behind a family who cherished her deeply.
She is survived by her children, Paul, Barbara (Kevin) Wigren, Raymond (Michelle), Michael (Kathy), and Rose Marie (John) Werner; her grandchildren, Steven Plys, Amy Plys, Jennifer (Keith) Mutka, Alissa (Michael) Newman, April (Matt) LaTurno, Samantha (Matt) Hatfield, Christina Keilman, and Courtney (Jeremy) Sluis; and her great grandchildren, Cylis Plys, Ryan Oakes, Madison Oakes, Katie Mutka, Taylor Mutka, Shayna Newman, Zachary Hatfield, Ayla Hatfield, Noah Hatfield, Leia Hatfield, Chloe Sluis, Aubrey Sluis, and Logan Sluis. She is also remembered fondly by many nieces and nephews.
Helen was preceded in death by her loving husband, Joseph J. Plys Jr., her parents Stephen and Teresa (Dermendzin) Trankulov, her brother Anthony (Tony), her sister Patricia Steele, and her great granddaughter Amber Lynn Oakes.
Helen loved spending time with her family and found joy in traveling throughout the US and Europe. She was an avid player of double deck pinochle, enjoyed crocheting and many crafts, and treasured fishing trips in Bemidji, MN. Helen delighted in watching her favorite shows, NCIS (especially Mark Harmon) and Grey’s Anatomy, often sharing laughter and stories inspired by her favorite episodes.
She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and compassion. Helen’s warmth, generosity, and unwavering support enriched the lives of everyone she met. While we mourn her loss, we celebrate her remarkable life and the lasting impact she made on
her loved ones.
Per her request, there will be no services or celebrations. The family asks that you remember Helen in your hearts and honor her memory by cherishing your loved ones.
For additional information, please contact Hillside Funeral Home, Konnie Kuiper - Michael Kuiper-Vass by calling 219-838-0800 or visiting us at www.hillsidefhcares.com
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Helen Frances Plys, please visit our floral store.