Helen Dorothy Dittrich, age 84, passed away quietly on Friday, April 21, 2006 at Colonial Manor of Amana, where she had resided briefly, from complications of cancer. Funeral Services: 10:00 A.M. Tuesday, April 25, 2006 at the Homestead Community Church in Homestead with Elder Mike Shoup officiating. Burial will be in the Homestead Cemetery. Friends may call from 4 to 7 P.M. Monday, April 24, 2006 at the Homestead Welfare Club, Marz Memorial Rooms in Homestead. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be contributed to the Amana Church Society or the Amana Heritage Society. Kloster Funeral Home, Marengo is in charge of arrangements.

Helen Dorothy Marz Dittrich was born on November 6, 1921 in Homestead, Iowa, the daughter of John Jacob and Henriette Kolb Marz. She graduated from the Amana High School in 1939 and worked at the Amana Woolen Sales office upon graduation. She married William August “Willie” Dittrich on February 5, 1949 in Homestead. They had a daughter, Caroline. Helen thoroughly enjoyed small town living and was a life-long resident of Homestead. She was an energetic, active individual who had varied interests, a sunny disposition, and a happy outlook on life. She enjoyed traveling and had the opportunity to travel extensively with family and friends throughout her life. Helen was a member of the Homestead Welfare Club, the Amana Heritage Society, and a devoted member of the Amana Church Society

She is survived by her daughter, Caroline and son-in-law, Larry Ertz of Middle Amana; two brothers, Louis and Fritz Marz and their families, and good friend Dale Welsh of Williamsburg. She was preceded in death by her husband, William and her parents.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Chirantan Ghosh, Hospice of Mercy and Colonial Manor of Amana.