Helen Jane Honsa

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Helen Jane Honsa, our beloved mother, grandmother and friend. Helen was born in Alliance Ohio on January 16 1928 to William and Verna Burkhart, and left us peacefully in San Rafael California on March 1 2024.

In addition to being an accomplished businesswoman who operated a beauty salon with distinction for over 40 years, Helen was also a loving and devoted mother to six children: Diane Wright, William Honsa,  David Honsa, Nancy Honsa-Iberti, Patricia Garrison and Douglas Honsa who all survive her. She is also survived by her children’s spouses and partners Barbara, Steve, Diana, Terryl , Hal and Melody. She leaves behind her dear daughter of the heart Julie Withey, her brother Robert Burkhart and generations of treasured grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. Helen was preceded in passing by her cherished husband Hank Honsa, and her longtime partner Bob Warrington. 

Helen will be best remembered for her grace, kindness and generosity. She had a gift for making everyone feel at ease in her home, and her house was always a warm haven for family and friends. Helen had a fondness for gardening, and found a love and remarkable talent for creating art later in life. She brilliantly painted many beautiful landscape scenes that reflected her peaceful and joyful spirit. Her kitchen was also a culinary studio, and she reveled in cooking seafood caught straight off the Mendocino coast and crafting delicious Norwegian pancakes by the dozen. Possessing a sense of unconditional compassion and kind hearted dedication, Helen left a lasting and positive influence on the community by supporting senior and veterans causes through her many years of selfless volunteering. 

Respected and deeply loved, Helen Honsa truly touched the lives of so many in her precious time with us.  Her legacy of love, good will and creativity will forever be remembered by her bereaved family and those who had the blessing and good fortune to know her.  “To live in the hearts of those we love is never to die”

Family will celebrate Helen’s life and legacy at a later date.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Helen Jane Honsa, please visit our floral store.