HELEN M. DUCHSCHER, age 88, of Merrillville, formerly of Portage, passed away Friday, February 15, 2013 while surrounded by her loving family. She was born on August 9, 1924 in Gary. Helen had worked as a clerk at the Portage Police Department for several years. Helen will be deeply missed.

Helen is survived by her son, James (Linda) Duchscher of Merrillville; daughter, Gail (Vincent) Jakimzak of CA; 4 grandchildren, David & Loraine Duchscher, Ed and Michael Jakimzak; 1 great grandchild, Anthony Mejia; 2 brothers, Edward Hallmen of Portage, Reinhold (Sue) Hallmen of Portage; sisters, Millie Krulik of Portage, Tillie Stapinski of Valparaiso; 3 sisters-in-law, Ann Warieka, Betty Barnack, Jean Hoffman; numerous nieces, nephews, and other loving family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 30 years, Edward; parents, Daniel and Susanna Hallmen; brothers, William and Henry Hallmen; 4 sisters, Freda Sherry, Hilda Ward, Hertha Sultzer, and Joan Evans.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Anthony Hospice in Crown Point.

A funeral service for Helen will be Wednesday, February 20, 2013 at 1:00 p.m. at Rees Funeral Home, Winfield Chapel, 10909 Randolph, Winfield/Crown Point, IN 46307. Burial will follow at Calumet Park Cemetery. Visitation will also be Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 1:00 p.m. at Rees Funeral Home, Winfield Chapel, (219) 661-2600 or online at www.reesfuneralhomes.com.