Death of Helena Klotz Stout

After a Sabbath day surrounded by family, Helena Klotz Stout, our precious wife, mom and Omi, went to her rest early the next morning, Aug. 14, 2022, at home in Loma Linda, California. She transitioned peacefully, while her daughter and granddaughter held her hands.

One of the most loving women to ever walk this earth, she blessed our family with the embrace of her fierce love. Born in Poland on March 12, 1934, she transitioned through German displaced persons camps, immigrating to the U.S. with her parents in 1949. While a student at Columbia Union College in Takoma Park, Maryland, she met and married John (Jack) Stout. Always the supporting partner, she left college and worked to make it possible for Jack to complete his doctoral studies in zoology. Their two children, first Ron and then Lynn, arrived during the latter half of this period.

The family then moved to College Place, Washington, where Jack joined the faculty of Biology at Walla Walla College and Helena focused entirely on her most cherished roles—as the most incredible mother and wife. The family then transitioned to Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan, via Cologne, Germany, where they reveled in a different culture and  Jack pursued postdoctoral studies and research. Early in the family's 43-year service to the Andrews University students, Helena returned to complete (in 1977) her college degree at Andrews, specializing in office management and business. She then worked with the Lake Union Conference in support of Literature Evangelism while developing lifelong friendships. This was followed by joining Andrews University's Student Success Center. She loved serving students, helping them find success in their lives and University programs, and facilitating support by their faculty mentors. Helena also found joy and fulfillment in organizing and coordinating volunteers for Pioneer Memorial Church's guest ministries and through volunteering at Neighbor to Neighbor, a ministry of Adventist Community Services which provides aid to the needy in the surrounding communities. She shared her generous spirit and welcoming gift of hospitality with everyone!

During later retirement (2017), Helena and Jack followed Lynn and husband Dan to Loma Linda, California, where she continued to enjoy special times with her children and grandchildren.

Helena was predeceased by her parents, Jakob and Elizabeth Klotz, and her brothers Marian and Jacob. She is survived by her husband John Stout, son Ron Stout (Pam), daughter Lynn Reichert (Dan) and grandchildren John Stout II, Elisabeth Mauro (Steven), Zachary Reichert (Allie) and Ashley Polski (Robbie); as well as her sister Lydia Bojanek and many nieces and nephews. 

A private graveside service will be held on Sept. 10, 2022, in Paradise, California. If desired, a donation may be made in Helena's honor to Neighbor to Neighbor (9147 US 31, Berrien Springs, MI 49103) by accessing n2nhelps.com and clicking on "donate."