Helen Watzel passed away peacefully on January 17. She was born on February 18, 1926, in Brooklyn, New York, to Carolyn and Jacob Gluckler.

Helen grew up in Brooklyn and cherished summers spent at her family’s summer home in Selden, New York—memories she held dear throughout her life. She later made her home in Massapequa Park, where she lived for many years before retiring to Florida with her beloved husband, Edwin Watzel. Helen and Ed were married for 50 wonderful years, sharing a life filled with love, companionship, and adventure. Two years ago, Helen moved to California to be closer to family.

During their retirement in Florida, Helen and Ed were active members of Fairway Village, where they enjoyed golfing and a vibrant social life. Together, they loved to travel and explored the United States on many Road Scholar trips, creating lasting memories along the way.

Helen was predeceased by her husband Edwin Watzel; her siblings Ruth Hinni, Marion Mahoney, and Fred Kothe; her daughter Linda Lukasik and son Eddie Watzel. She is survived by her children Scott Anderson and his wife Sue Anderson, Keith Anderson, and Don Watzel and his wife Karen. Helen is also survived by ten grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense joy and pride.

Helen will be remembered for her warmth, her love of family, her enthusiasm for travel and community, and the quiet grace with which she lived her life. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will be treasured by all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hospice of the East Bay in her honor.