Helen Hannum, of Rochester, formerly of La Crosse, Wis., 73, passed away peacefully in her sleep at Samaritan Bethany Home on Eighth on Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2013, after a long battle with several illnesses.

Helen was born March 5, 1940, in Superior, Wis., to Arlette and Ari Karanikos. She had two sisters, Gloria and Frances.

Helen's courage and thirst for adventure lead her to La Crosse, Wis., where she met and married Richard Hannum. They raised four children. Over the years, she pursued a variety of careers including: Secretary to the President of Gateway Trucking, Graphic Artist and Claims Adjustor. She was bright, articulate and extremely curious about everything around her.

Helen is survived by her children, Robert Hannum of Tucson, Ariz., Sara Karanikos of Rochester, John and Sheila Hannum (beloved daughter-in-law) of Manitowoc, Wis.; son-in-law, David Kuecker of La Crosse, Wis.; her grandchildren, Katie Kuecker of La Crosse, Wis., Alexander and Miranda Hurlebaus of Rochester and Thomas Hannum of Manitowoc, Wis. She was blessed with one great-grandchild, Nicolae Hurlebaus of Rochester.

Helen was preceded in passing by her daughter, Trudy Kuecker, father and mother, Ari and Arlette Karanikos, sisters, Gloria and Frances and her ex-husband, Richard Hannum.

Helen has requested no funeral service. She will return home to La Crosse and be laid to rest next to her daughter, Trudy in the Mormon Coulee Memorial Park at 3 p.m. Friday, Oct. 4.

Her children and grandchildren will celebrate her life by gathering at Big Al's in La Crosse to share her favorite meal of a burger and French fries. All are welcome to join and share a memory directly after her interment on Friday, Oct. 4.

Macken Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.

Online condolences may be made at mackenfuneralhome.com .