Helen Greenan

Helen Louise Shepard Greenan passed away peacefully, surrounded by loving family, on May 5, 2025 in Seattle, WA. Helen was the second child born to Cecilia and Walter Shepard on June 15, 1933. She grew up and ran through the Laurelhurst neighborhood of Portland, Oregon with her brothers, John and Wally, and many lifelong friends. She attended All Saints School, Holy Child Academy and Gonzaga University. While at Gonzaga, she met the love of her life, Thomas J “Jerry” Greenan. They were married on June 1, 1957, and made their way to Olympia, WA and then on to Mercer Island. In 1962, Helen and Jerry moved their growing family to Bellevue, WA and became involved in St. Louise Parish and School and later, Sacred Heart Parish and School. Helen was the backbone of the family, often at home for long periods with all the kids as Jerry traveled for work many weeks out of every month. With ease, she moved between being a mom, a coach, a chauffeur, a cook, a disciplinarian, a friend, a volunteer extraordinaire and an incredible role model. She always had an open door and kitchen table for all the kids in the neighborhood. She did it all while laughing and smiling…..at least most of the time.

Once the kids were grown, Helen and Jerry started traveling. They spent many months in Florence, Italy, while Jerry was working at the Gonzaga in Florence program and then using Florence as their starting point for many international trips. They traveled with many friends, Jerry making the itinerary and Helen bringing the fun!

She was always the best fan for all her kids’ and grandkids’ sporting and school events. She loved attending and loudly cheering for family anytime she could. The extended Greenan family always had at least one fan in the stands!

Helen was a devoted, lifelong Catholic, often attending daily mass. She was an active member of St. Louise and Sacred Heart parishes until she moved to Seattle where she joined Our lady of Fatima Parish. She was an ardent supporter of Catholic education, especially Gonzaga University.

Helen is survived by her children, Greg, Kathleen Murphy (Matt), Tim (Heidi), Maureen Bergquist (Duff), and Dan (Carla); grandchildren and great granddaughter; sisters-in-law Colleen Evans and Mary Shepard; nieces, nephew and devoted friends. Helen was preceded in death by her beloved, Jerry, grandson Charlie, parents and brothers. Helen will be remembered for her love, support and exuberance for life.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated Friday June 6th at 11AM at Our Lady of Fatima Church, 3218 W Barrett Street, Seattle, WA.

If you are so inclined, memorial donations may be directed to the Thomas and Helen Greenan Law Book Endowment at Gonzaga University Attn: University Advancement, 502 E Boone Ave, Spokane WA 99258.