Helen Karnold of Elgin, IL was 107 years old when she passed away on August 13, 2012. Helen was born to Michael Kalter and Katherine Heinzen Kalter on March 19, 1905. 

Helen is survived by her son, Raymond Long, 10 of her 11 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and three great-great grandchildren.   Preceding her in death was her daughter, Virginia Oliver, her husbands,  Edward Long & Gus Karnold, and  her eight siblings:  John, Eleanor, Florence, Betty, Ray, Clara, Louise, and Clarence.

When asked to share her secret for a long life, she responded, “You need to be kind, take care of yourself, and take care of your mind.”  Helen was an avid cross-word puzzler and often said, “If you don’t  use it (your mind) you’ll lose it.” 

Believed to be Elgin’s oldest resident, Mayor Ed Schock declared Helen’s birthday to be Helen Karnold Day.  Helen was a remarkable woman whose vitality and zest for life will be dearly missed.

Visitation for Helen will be on August 17, 2012 from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.  The Funeral Mass will be held on August 18, 2012 at 10:00 at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church in Elgin followed by interment at Mount Hope Cemetery.