Ilion Helen May Gardner, 93, passed away Friday, February 23, 2018. Helen was born in Ilion on May 10, 1924 the daughter of the late Authur and Lila Burdick and attended Ilion Schools. On September 22, 1963 she was united in marriage with Donald C. Gardner in Sherburne NY with Rev. Carlton VanOrnum officiating. Don passed away on November 9, 1980. Helen was employed with Loblaw's as a cashier for many years and also with Duo fold at one time. She was an Election Inspector for fifteen years retiring in 2009. Helen was a member of the Morning Star Methodist Church, a life member of the DAVA Aux., DAVA member at large, a member of the Violet Rebekah Lodge since Jan. 16, 1945 and was also a life member, a member of the E. Winfield VFW 2338, a Life Member the American Legion 920 Aux. Helen is survived by her longtime friend and caregiver Linda and Frank Kopczenski, nephews and a nieces, William (Chip) and Robin Gardner of FL, Mr. and Mrs. Jeffery Gardner , Mr. And Mrs. Christopher Gardner, Melinda Gardner and her sister in law Elizabeth Gardner, all of Pa. She also leaves her many friends whom she considered family, Charlotte Durse of Frankfort, Charles and Tara Durse, Ilion, Ryan Durse, George Durse, Debbie Durse and her boyfriend Jeff Farley all of Frankfort. Helen leaves other beloved friend and neighbors, Patricia Gillon of Frankfort and her son Joseph. They were very caring and loving to Helen over the years. Patti and Joe loved Helen and she loved them. Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Engle and sons for their Christian love over the years, Don and Lisa Pederson, Jim Crossway who considered her his second grandmother, Jack and Kelly Bono and Jack Jr. for their love and cookies, Bob and Ellen Culver, for their cards and candy. Nick Pianella, Mr and Mrs Corey Chrisman and family and Michael Latell Jr.She also leaves her church family that meant so much to her over the years, Brad and Harriett Haynes, Barb Horwald, Verla Hill, her friend Beverly Mallet, Morris, NY, Sherry Tucker and her family, especially Arthur, Mr. and Mrs. Donald Bellino and family of Ilion. Helen also wanted to send a special thank you to the Knight Spot, Frankfort; the Village Market, Mohawk, the Medicine Shop, lion, Warren and Bill Lennox, Ilion, Nick Parella, Frankfort and a special thanks to Michael Latella of Cassville for her Sidewalk. Helen was a true friend and a gift from God. She loved and cared for all her friends in this life. Helen was a great lady and true Christian woman, who will be greatly missed by many people. Linda would like to the Helen's Dr. Constaline and all his staff for all their love and caring over the long years. And to Hospice for their love, hope and caring. Especially Lori, Carrie, Alania and Michelle. God bless them all. A Celebration of Helen's Life will be held 4:00 PM Tuesday, February 27, 2018 at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, Inc., 100 Otsego St., Ilion with her friends, Pastors Gail and Michael Jay officiating. Friends may call Tuesday from 2:00 PM until the time of the service. Friends are asked to consider memorials to Hospice and Palliative Care or the Herkimer County Humane Society. To leave an online condolence please go to www.whiter-hendrix.com.