Obituary of Karen F. Helker

Karen F. Helker, MSN, RN, age 60 of Glen Mills, PA, passed away unexpectedly on February 9, 2022 at Riddle Memorial Hospital. Born in Wynnewood, PA, Karen resided for the past 27 years in Glen Mills, PA, previously residing in Chester Heights, PA. Karen attended Villanova University where she received her undergraduate degree in nursing (Class of 1984) and her master's degree in nursing administration (Class of 1990). Karen was the Chief Nursing Officer at the Elwyn Institute for 15 years and was the previous Vice President of Clinical Services and Chief Nursing Officer at Pennsylvania Hospital. She was a member of the Michael J. Fox Foundation and loved music, trips to the shore, and her miniature poodle, Molly. Most of all, Karen loved spending time with her family. Karen is survived by her husband, Karl F. Helker, daughter, Dr. Amanda Helker, Au.D., mother and step-father, Barbara and Robert Bureski, father and step-mother, Robert Linquist and Gail Shoemaker, and brother, Robert Linquist, Jr. A viewing will be held on Thursday February 17, 2022, from 6-8PM at the Pagano Funeral Home, 3711 Foulk Rd. Garnet Valley, PA. A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, February 18, 2022 at 10:30 AM at St. Thomas the Apostle, Old Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Michael J. Fox foundation (michaeljfox.org). Online condolences may be made by visiting www.paganofuneralhome.com.