Hanna Helena Naef was born November 18, 1933 in Affoltern am Albis, Switzerland, the daughter of Hans and Hulda (Tanner) Naef. Her family, including her parents, her sister Heidi and Helena (or Helen) came to the United States in 1947 and settled in Big Pine, California, and after 3 years there they moved to Lodi, California. After High School graduation, Helena moved to San Francisco and worked as an accountant in various positions. In 1952, she met William George Naef (Bill) in San Francisco while he was stationed at the Presidio during his U.S. Army duty. They were united in marriage on June 20, 1953 at the Presidio Post Chapel in San Francisco, CA. They lived and worked in San Francisco for many years and then moved to Decorah in 1991. Helena's last job appointment with the Government was as an auditor. Her territory was west of the Mississippi River to Truck Island in the Pacific.
She thoroughly enjoyed her life in Decorah, was active in Order of the Eastern Star and the weaving Guild. She was an avid knitter, weaver and sewer. Helena died on Wednesday, June 13, 2012 at home in Decorah at the age of 78.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband William on March 16, 2010.
Helena is survived by her sister, Heidi Danieli of El Verano, CA; two nephews, Dr. Barry Danieli and his wife Diane and Barney Danieli, and by her niece, Wendy Danieli.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Barthell Order of Eastern Star Home or Winneshiek Medical Center Hospice.
A private family graveside service was held at Lutheran Cemetery in Decorah. Fjelstul Funeral Home in Decorah is serving the family.
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