Helen Ann Atwood

Helen Ann Atwood, 75, of Topeka, died Sunday, June 25, 2006 at Midland Hospice House in Topeka with her family by her side. Helen was born on September 19, 1930 in Eureka, KS, the daughter of Orville and Alice McNelly. She graduated from Lyons High School in Lyons, KS.. She attended Wesley School of Nursing in Wichita, graduating in 1951. She married M. Dale Atwood, M.D. and moved to Kinsley, KS where Dale established his family practice in 1953. Helen worked as a Registered Nurse in Dale's office for several years. She was a valued volunteer for the Edwards County Hospital, The American Red Cross and other community organizations. She devoted herself to raising her five sons and in later years, delighted in her nine granddaughters and one grandson. Helen and Dale were members of the Kinsley United Methodist Church for over 50 years. Helen was an active member of the Kinsley United Methodist Women group. The couple moved to Topeka in August of 2003. Helen is survived by her husband, Dale and her five sons and their families: Dr. Steven & Carlene Atwood, Springfield, MO, Dr. Larry & Charlotte Atwood, Independence, KS, Dr. Michael & Jennie Atwood, and Dr. Eric & Robin Atwood, Topeka, Kansas and Dr. Jeff & Laura Atwood, Wamego, KS; and ten grandchildren. Helen was preceded in death by her sister, Mary Reschke and her brother, Dale McNelly. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday at Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel, 1321 S.W. 10th Ave., Topeka, KS. Burial will follow in the Penwell-Gabel Cemetery & Mausoleum, 6th Ave. & Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS. Helen will lie in state after 3:00 p.m. today at Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel where the family will receive friends from 5:00-7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the Kinsley United Methodist Church, 803 Marsh, Kinsley, KS 67547 or to Midland Hospice Care, 200 S.W. Frazier Circle, Topeka, KS 66606.