Helgard G Fridell of Freeland, passed away Saturday, March 27, 2010. She was 82 years old.

Helgard Poenitzsch was born in Amberg, Germany, and married Robert Fridell following World War II in 1948. They had two children and moved to Whidbey Island in 1962.

Helgard began a distinguished career with the U.S. Postal Service in the Freeland office and completed that service, retiring as postmaster in the Langley office. She was active in local community activities and was preceded in death by her husband in 2003.

Helgard is survived by daughter Christine Cunningham; son Wes Fridell and wife Joan; family neighbor Ken Fisk; and six grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

A celebration of Helgard’s life will be held from 1:30 to 4 p.m. Saturday,

April 17 in the community dining room at the Maple Ridge Assisted Living community in Freeland.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, donations may be made to Helgard’s favorite charity, WAIF, PO Box 1108 Coupeville, WA 98239.