Helena Sue Kalb, 73, of Crestline, was surrounded by her loving family when she was called home to her Lord and Savior on Saturday, August 29, 2026.
Helena was born in Portsmouth on October 12, 1952, to the late John and Delza (Ruckel) Fannin. On September 14, 1973, Helena married Jon Kalb, a decision she would always consider one of the very best she ever made. Together, they built a life centered around faith, family, and love and shared 53 wonderful years of marriage. Jon survives in Crestline.
Helena graduated from Bucyrus High School with the Class of 1970 and later continued her education at The Ohio State University, earning her bachelor’s degree in Education in 1984. Her passion for education and helping others led her to further her studies, earning her master’s degree in Education from Ashland University. Helena dedicated 28 years to educating young people as a teacher with Crestline City Schools, including many years spent teaching Special Education. Her patience, compassion, and dedication allowed her to make a lasting difference in the lives of countless students and families throughout the Crestline community.
Helena’s faith was an important and steadfast part of her life, and it remained beautifully evident even in her passing as she was surrounded by those she loved. Helena faced the end of her earthly life with the same faith, humor, and grace with which she had lived it. She was at peace and ready for what came next, summing up a life well lived in her own simple way, “It’s been a good ride.” And for Helena, it certainly had been, filled with a loving husband, a family she adored, a career that made a difference, and a faith that assured her the ride was not truly over. She was a longtime member and active participant at both the Bucyrus Church of the Nazarene and Crestline Church of the Nazarene. She enjoyed sharing her faith with others and spent many years teaching Sunday school.
Outside of the classroom and church, Helena had no shortage of interests. She enjoyed fishing, camping, and riding bikes, as well as participating in bowling leagues in Bucyrus. She was also talented with her hands and enjoyed sewing, knitting, crocheting, scrapbooking, and making gingerbread houses. Whether she was creating something for someone she loved or simply enjoying one of her many hobbies, Helena found happiness in staying busy and sharing those moments with others.
Above all, Helena treasured her family. She looked forward to family reunions and any opportunity to bring everyone together. Her grandchildren held an especially important place in her heart, and Helena never wanted to miss an opportunity to support them. No matter where their many activities and interests took them or what the weather might bring, Helena could be found in the stands, proudly cheering them on. Some of her greatest joy came from simply spending time with those she loved and watching her daughters, grandchildren, and eventually her great-grandchildren grow.
In addition to her husband, Helena’s memories will be cherished by her daughters: Erica (Derek) Borror of Mansfield, and Tina (Richard) Meyers of Marion; brothers: Donald (Cyndi) Fannin of Mt. Vernon, and Paul Fannin of Columbus; grandchildren: Clayton (Lindsay) Jury, Jackie Meyers, Cooper Jury, Olivia Meyers, Adrienne Jury, Jacob Meyers, and Ryan Meyers; and great-grandchildren: Graham Jury and Myles Jury.
Helena was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Karen Bradshaw.
Friends may call on Thursday, September 3, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Crestline Church of the Nazarene, 500 E. Main St., Crestline. A funeral service will be held on Friday, September 4, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the church with Pastor Bob Weaver officiating.
Those wishing to share a memory of Helena or send condolences to the Kalb family may do so by visiting www.masfh.com.
The Gompf Funeral Service – Crestline Chapel, 223 W. Main Street, Crestline, is honored to serve the family of Helena Sue Kalb.
Funeral Home: Gompf Funeral Service – Crestline Chapel
Website: www.masfh.com