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Helen M. Burkhardt

Obituaries | The Tube City Almanac | January 06, 2023

Helen M. Burkhardt, age 91, of Port Vue, died on January 5, 2023, at St. Clair Hospital. Born February 18, 1931, in Warren, PA. She was the daughter of the late Robert and Sarah (Bowser) Best and wife of the late Edward A. Kiesell and Raymond Burkhardt. Helen worked for Stouffer's Restaurant, Eat'n Park, Rendulic Meat Packing in her early years and as a caregiver later in life. She and her husband Ray ran Kiesell Soup Kitchen and Chapel in McKeesport for over 35 years. Helen would feed the homeless, have Christmas parties, pass out clothing and teach the Word of God. Serving the underprivileged held a special place in her heart, and her selflessness and kindness were a true example to all who knew her. Above all, Helen was a Woman of God and, as a minister, was known as Sister Helen.

Helen is survived by children, Gary Kiesell, Karen (James) Hecht, and Bridget (Chuck) Besong; daughter-in-law Gwynn Kiesell; grandchildren, Jonathan (Denise) Serrano, Tyann (Brian) Neal, Sasha Fortna, Stacey Tabanli, and Charles (Kim) Besong; nine great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephew. In addition to her parents and husbands, Helen was also preceded in death by a son, Eddie Kiesell; sisters, Margaret Bish, Nellie Everett, and Mildred Best; brothers, Grover, George, and Wilson Best; daughter-in-law, Linda Kiesell. Family and friends will be received at Willig Funeral Home & Crematory, 220 9th St. McKeesport, Pa. on Monday from 2 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and on Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 10:30 am followed by the funeral service Tuesday at 11 a.m. at Highland Grove United Methodist Church 2909 Highland Ave McKeesport, PA. Burial will follow at Richland Cemetery. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.willigfuneralcremationservices.com Memorial contributions are suggested to the Highland Grove United Methodist Church for Missions and Outreach.
Charles Danforth, Supervisor

Originally published January 06, 2023.

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