December 20, 1931 – November 9, 2023

Helen was one of ten (10) children, three (3) of whom are still living. She was born in the Snoqualmie and North Bend area, where she lived her entire life.

Her family and friends delighted in speaking with her about the history of the valley. She could recall most families in the area, where they came from, where they lived, and most impressively, their children.

When Helen was eight (8) years old, she spent summers working at the Toll Gate Farm, picking beans, and cutting broccoli. It didn’t take long for Helen to get “promoted” and when she was eleven (11) years old, she became the youngest person to work on the broccoli planting crew. She continued to plant broccoli four (4) more summers.

When Helen was a young woman, she met Frank B. Andersen. Shortly after, at age sixteen (16), they got married and began building their family. Frank and Helen were married for 65 years, before Frank passed away.

Helen enjoyed canning fruits and vegetables, sewing clothes for her children, cooking, and making homemade pies. She loved to socialize; she enjoyed large family gatherings and dinner parties with friends.

Helen was a student at Folk Barber College. After graduating, she worked for the Issaquah Barber shop for five years, before opening her own shop. Her shop was located at her home and was called “Whistle Stop Barber Shop”.

Since Helen loved to socialize, cutting and styling hair was a perfect fit for her. She enjoyed talking with old friends and making new ones. She took pride in her haircuts and always maintained affordable pricing.

Helen was a wonderful mother to six (6) children, all of whom are living: Richard Andersen, Teresa Bookter, Frank Andersen Jr., Marsha Van DeBrake, Mick Andersen, and Leesa Westerland.

Helen has nineteen (19) grandchildren, forty- two (42) great grandchildren, and four (4) great-great grandchildren.

Helen Berkebile Andersen will be greatly missed. Her children will be hosting a Celebration of Life this spring. Please join us at that time, to participate in something Helen greatly enjoyed, large gatherings with family and friends. Let’s socialize in Helen’s honor!