Helen P. Wanless

Helen Patricia Wanless, 87, of Phoenix, Arizona, passed away peacefully on January 20, 2024. Born on September 5, 1937, in Boston, Massachusetts, Helen was the beloved daughter of Florence Swanson and Charles Chasas.

In 1959, she married the love of her life, Bill Wanless, and together they raised two sons, Robert and Charles. Throughout their marriage, Helen and Bill had the opportunity to travel the world due to Bill’s jobs, living in Ecuador, Panama, Hong Kong, and Mexico. Helen, ever the adventurous spirit, taught herself Spanish and embraced the cultures of the places they called home.

Helen had a rewarding career working as an event planner in Convention Services at the Pointe Hotels in Phoenix. She particularly enjoyed working with NFL teams that visited the Valley, building lasting relationships with the teams and her colleagues.

A lifelong sports fan, Helen was a passionate attendee of ASU football games and could often be found watching any college football game on television. She had a love for the simple pleasures in life, including Oreos and milk or a cold beer to unwind. Helen also had a deep fondness for ducks and had an impressive collection that earned her the affectionate nickname of "Grandma Duck" from her grandchildren.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents, Florence and Charles, grandson Cristofer, as well as her beloved husband, Robert William "Bill" Wanless. She is survived by her sister Sandy Young (Bob) of Patagonia, Arizona, brother John Bearup (Sue) of Selah, Washington, sons Robert Wanless (Elizabeth) of Phoenix, Charles Wanless of Thailand, and her stepson, Michael Gilbert (Arnold) of Phoenix. Her legacy lives on through her grandchildren: Charles Riley Wanless (Monica) of Los Angeles, Connor Wanless of Los Angeles, Asia Wanless of Phoenix, Anna Cecilia Wanless of Norman, Oklahoma, and Travis Wanless of Clemson, South Carolina.

In her final years, Helen was lovingly cared for by the compassionate staff at Huger Mercy Living Center, and the family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks for their care. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Huger Mercy Living Center to support the care they provide to others.

Helen will be deeply missed by all who knew her—her warmth, kindness, and joyful spirit will forever be remembered.