Mary Helen Velaski

Mary Helen Velaski, 77, Grand Forks, ND died Saturday, February 14, 2015 in the Hillsboro Sanford Health Center. Mary Helen Elaine Berger was born October 26, 1937 in Grand Forks, the daughter of Palmer and Edna (Weir) Berger. She was raised in Grand Forks and graduated from Central High School in 1955. Mary Helen married John L. Velaski on May 3, 1958 in St. Michael's Catholic Church of Grand Forks. They lived in Grand Forks where Mary Helen operated a daycare out of her home. She also worked at various bakeries in Grand Forks including Charlie's Bakery. Mary Helen enjoyed roller-skating, camping, ceramics and cake decorating. Survivors include her son, Paul (Wendy) Velaski, San Jose, CA; daughters, Pam Nikle, and Penne (Robert, Jr.) Nikle, both of East Grand Forks, MN, grandchildren, Brandon, Jenna (Adam Ostrow) and Derek Velaski, Kayla (Jody Leeds), Kyle (Fiancé Caely), Josh (Danielle) and Matt (Mandy) Nikle; great grandchildren, Logan and Aria Nikle, Brynlee Leeds as well as one more to arrive soon; sister-in-law, Linda Inman. Her husband, John; brother, Palmer Berger, Jr; and a son-in-law, Rick Nikle, preceded her in death. The family wishes to thank the staff at the Hillsboro Sanford Care Center for all of their years for caring for their mother/grandmother. Funeral Services will be 11:00 AM Tuesday, February 17, 2015 in Sharon Lutheran Church of Grand Forks. Visitation will be for the hour before the service in the church. Burial will be in Memorial Park South Cemetery of Grand Forks.