Age 87 of Kalamazoo, passed away Friday afternoon, February 21, 2025. Helen was born in Delton, MI, on April 25, 1937, the daughter of Hubert and Dorothy (McCallum) Pettengill. Helen grew up in Hickory Corners and graduated from Kellogg High School. On June 9, 1979, she married Edwin Dec, who preceded her in death in 2018. After their marriage, they moved for 20 years to Woodland, CA, near Sacramento. Helen worked for many years in the healthcare profession as a Licensed Practical Nurse. Helen enjoyed living a healthy life and was very health conscious. In her spare time, she enjoyed cooking, shopping and listening to Dixieland music. She and Ed also enjoyed travelling. Nothing was more important to her than the time she spent with her family. Helen is survived by her children, Jeffery (Wendy) Conklin and Kimberly (Robert) Crose; step-children, Theodore (Sharie) Dec, Samuel Dec, Timothy (Cherie) Dec, Jonathan (Renee) Dec, Juli (Duane) Hagan; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; siblings, Judy Brauer, Sally (Bill) Coats, Jack Pettengill; sister-in-law, Sue Pettengill; several nieces and nephews; and many friends, including her beloved, four-legged friend, Joey. Besides her husband, Helen was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Paul Pettengill; and her first husband, Carroll Conklin.