Helen VanPatten

Jerome - Helen Bernice VanPatten, 89, of Jerome, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday May 3, 2015. She was born February 2, 1926, in Tuttle, Idaho, the daughter of Albert R. Bowers and Martha Matilda Ida Erdmann Bowers. Bernice was raised in the Magic Valley and graduated from Jerome High School in 1948. Following high school, she earned a Bachelors of Science degree from Woodberry College in Burbank. Bernice married Henry Donald "Don" VanPatten on March 25, 1949. They made their home in Twin Falls, where they raised one daughter, Claudia. They later settled in Jerome. Bernice was a lifelong member of the Lutheran Church and worshipped at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Jerome. She enjoyed reading and spending time with family.

Bernice is survived by her husband of 56 years, Don VanPatten; their daughter, Claudia (Dan) Creek, of Twin Falls; grandson, Cliff (Kari) Creek; two great-grandsons; and many extended family members and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents.

A funeral service will be conducted at 11:00 AM , Thursday May 7, 2015 , at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 1301 North Davis, Jerome, Idaho, with Reverend Clint Lutz, officiating. A visitation will begin one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow in the Jerome Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care of Farnsworth Mortuary of Jerome.