Helen "Yelena" Ward

Helen "Yelena" Ward, cherished mother, beloved grandmother, and dear friend, passed away on December 3, 2025, in Troy, Michigan, at the age of 88. Born on September 12, 1937, in Detroit, Michigan, she led a life full of warmth, love, and connection, leaving an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Helen dedicated nearly 40 years of her life to Roney Investments Brokerage Firm, from which she retired in 1998. Her career was characterized by dedication, hard work, and a steadfast commitment to those around her. She was a model of professionalism and courtesy, proving to be a sincere and dependable colleague to many.

Education was also important to Helen, as she graduated from Pershing High School in Detroit. Starting with her 25th reunion and continuing for decades, she played a key role in organizing class reunions, fostering lifelong friendships and connections among her classmates up until their 70th milestone.

Helen was immensely proud of her family. She leaves behind her son, James (Susan) Ward, and her granddaughter, Loralyn (Al) Flick, whom she adored. A beacon of positivity and affection, Helen's greatest wish was to celebrate her granddaughter's wedding, a moment that brought her immense joy and allowed her to dance her heart out, surrounded by loved ones. The value she placed on her family and friends was a defining characteristic. She shared countless fond memories, particularly those spent annually celebrating Thanksgiving week at their cherished cabin in Northern Michigan—an enduring tradition that lasted over 50 years.

Those who had the privilege of knowing Helen often describe her as friendly, sociable, and approachable. Her life was a tapestry of experiences, filled with numerous places visited and cultures tasted, particularly through her love of baking, cooking, and savoring diverse cuisines. She approached life with a positive attitude and pure enthusiasm, embodying the essence of friendship and fellowship.

Nevertheless, Helen faced significant challenges in her later years, bravely contending with serious health issues, including a brain tumor and breast cancer, fighting tirelessly for more than three years. Her strength, resilience, and optimistic spirit are truly admirable. Helen’s fight was extraordinary, and she faced adversity with grace and dignity until the end, when the tumor became unmanageable.

Helen is reunited in eternal rest with her beloved husband, Ernie Ward, her son, John Ward, and her brother, James Lisull, all of whom she deeply missed. Her legacy of love, perseverance, and joy lives on through her surviving family members and the countless friends whose lives she touched.

Visitation will be held on December 9, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM, followed by a funeral service beginning at 7:00 PM, at Wysocki & Wilk Funeral Home, 29440 Ryan Rd, Warren, MI 48092.

As we gather to celebrate the life of Helen "Yelena" Ward, let us remember her unwavering love for family and friends, her joyful spirit, and her inspiring ability to create cherished memories that will endure in our hearts forever.

Donations in Helen's memory can be made to Residential Hospice.

Please share a memory, thought, or prayer with the family here on Helen's online guestbook.