Helen Van Horn Cordwell

Helen Van Horn Cordwell

Helen passed away October 31, 2009 at her home in Newport Beach, California, after a long struggle with Renal Failure. Born December 5, 1924, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Helen was one of six children to Harry and Elizabeth Van Horn. After finishing school, Helen went to work as a Cartographer for Gulf Oil Corporation where she met the love of her life, Frank Cordwell, a Gulf Research pilot. They married in August of 1949 and enjoyed several years of moving around the country with Frank’s job until he returned to school and later graduated from the University of Pittsburg. Following graduation Frank returned to Gulf and took an assignment in San Tome, Venezuela, which would last 21 wonderful years. It is in San Tome where their only daughter, Pam, was born and raised. Frank and Helen retired to Florida and then moved to California in 1996 to be closer to Pam’s family. With Frank’s death in 1997, Helen moved next door to her daughter and family.

Granny next door was a treasure for our family and friends. Known for her apple pies, sports enthusiasm and bridge games, she is greatly missed by all. Wonderful mother, mother in law, grandmother and friend, her gentle presence was a constant comfort.

Helen is survived by her brother, Roy, sister, Lyda, her daughter Pam Dobson, son in-law Les, grandchildren Cheryl, Carly and Eric, and many nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Share Our Selves in Costa Mesa. Helen loved volunteering there till her declining health made it too difficult.