Helen Determan

With heavy but joyful hearts we announce the passing of Helen F. (Clark) Determan, who peacefully went to eternal life on Wednesday, February 14, 2024, at the age of 96.

Services are 10:30 a.m. Thursday, February 22, at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, Bettendorf.  Visitation is one hour prior to services.  The family will greet friends at a funeral luncheon immediately following services. Cremation will take place at Trimble Crematory, Moline, Illinois, under the direction of Cremation Society of the Quad Cities.  Burial is in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Clinton, Iowa.   Memorials may be made to the church.

The former Helen Frances Clark was born October 21, 1927, in Clinton, Iowa, the daughter of Francis and Frances Clark.  She married the love of her life, Donald James Determan and the couple had four children.  He died June 3, 1976.

Helen was the core of the family, bringing and keeping them close.  Her family was a driving force in her life, sharing in their successes, triumphs, and challenges.  She was a champion for everyone.  The pride Helen felt for her children, eventually grandchildren and great grandchildren, was painted on her face and melodied in her voice.  Helen cherished her siblings, not just as family but as lifelong friends.  Sharing in years of celebrating growing families, gatherings, and energetic card games.   Helen held dear the unbreakable bond that only her and her siblings knew.

Helen’s faith enriched her life. Being one of the founding members of St. John Vianney Catholic Church in 1967, she was very proud of the church where she spent time worshipping and worked to serve others in the congregation and community.   During challenging times in Helen’s life, she leaned on her faith to find peace, and relied on her belief that God had a plan.  Helen lived her life through Gods word and testament by selflessly volunteering, and her charitable work, truly living by the word of the scriptures. 

Helen had a profound impact on everyone she encountered.  She always had a warm smile, a listening ear, and a contagious laugh.   Anyone crossing her threshold, was welcomed in with open arms and always filled the role as the gracious hostess, gaining delight in attending to her guests.  She held many long friendships that lasted a lifetime.  She treasured the friendships and found much joy and comfort by sharing visits, calls, and letters throughout the years. 

You would always find Helen cheering on her favorite sports teams, but especially college basketball.  Helen was an avid Cubs, Hawkeyes, and Fighting Irish fan.  Helen visited the casino with friends and “The Luck of the Irish” seemed to always be on her side.  Helen enjoyed reading, letter writing, challenging crosswords, card games, and creating beautiful needle point artwork.  Helen had a flare for decorating and a trained eye for finding beautiful items for her home and found much pleasure in doing so.    

Helen may have left this world, but her spirit, grace, and life lessons will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved her. 

Helen is survived by three children, Richard Determan, John (Kathleen) Determan, and Jane Dilworth; a daughter-in-law, Kate Determan; six grandchildren, Ben, Emily, Laura, Michael, Traci, and Elizabeth; and five great-grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Don; a son, Thom Determan; a daughter-in-law, JoAnn Determan; a son-in-law, Ed Dilworth; and her siblings.

The family thanks the Unity Point Hospice staff for the care and support they provided to Helen and her family, giving her dignity and peace