Helen W. Koester, 88

LAUREL - Helen W. Koester, of Laurel, died Tuesday, June 17, 2008, at Nanticoke Memorial Hospital, Seaford. She was 88.

She was born Feb. 26, 1920, in Philadelphia, daughter of the late George and Helen Koch.

Helen was a retired elementary school teacher in Laurel. She later enjoyed being a volunteer at school, reading to the children and serving as a Sunday school teacher.

She was a member of Messiah's Vineyard in Laurel.

She is survived by her husband of 22 years, Douglas O. Koester; a daughter and son-in-law, Patricia and Olman Gutierrez; a daughter and son-in-law, Judith and Don Miller; a son and daughter-in-law, Richard and Barbara Webster; a son and daughter-in-law, William and Mary Webster; a daughter and son-in-law, Barbara and John Bowden; 10 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Nancy Bateman.

A memorial service will be at 2 p.m. Sunday at Short Funeral Home, 13 E. Grove St., Delmar. The Rev. Carl Vincent will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to the Alzheimers Association/Eastern Shore Chapter, 213 W. Main St., Suite 205, Salisbury, MD 21801.

Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.shortfh.com.