Obituary of Helen Bischoff

Helen Ann (Minki) Bischoff, 76, of State College, passed away Tuesday, June 19, 2012 at her residence. Born January 19, 1936, in Bellefonte, she was a daughter of the late Allen Harris and Frances Ford Forbes. She married John S. Bischoff on June 9, 1957, who survives at home. She was the devoted mother of four: Bruce C. Bischoff and his wife, Amy, of Pittsburgh, Elizabeth B. Ruhl and her husband Fred E. McClintic, of Spring Mills, Diane B. Gemberling and her husband, Mark, of Apex, NC, Gretchen B. Thompson and her husband, Jeff, of Fuquay-Varina, NC, a sister Margaret "Marnie" Hoy, of State College, a brother, Allen Forbes and his wife, Jane, of Lancaster. She was the loving grandmother of her six grandchildren; Alison Ruhl, Grace, Luke, and Eliza Gemberling, Nathan and Ford Thompson. Helen was a 1953 graduate of State College Area High School. She was a 1957 graduate of Penn State University in Elementary Education and a sister in Kappa Kappa Gamma. She was a member of the State College Presbyterian Church, Centre Hills Country Club, and the local Antiquists. Minki's passions included playing golf, playing bridge, watching Penn State Sports, and her family and friends. Throughout, her life she enjoyed knitting, sewing, crafting, volunteering with the Special Olympic programs, downhill and Cross Country skiing, tennis and gardening. She was the best bargain shopper ever and passes this skill down to her daughters. Her winters were spent in Port St. Joe, FL, where she walked the beach, golfed, and dined with special friends. Her love for her neighbors, her friends, and her family showed in her contagious smile and tight hugs. Minki made everyone feel welcome when they walked in the room. Visitation will be June 22, 2012 from 5:00 - 8:00 pm at Koch Funeral Home, 2401 S. Atherton St., State College. A memorial service will held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 23, 2012 at the State College Presbyterian Church at 132 W. Beaver Ave. with the Rev. Susan Reisinger officiating. It was Minki's wish that everyone attending her service wear colorful clothing or golf attire to celebrate the vibrant life that she lived. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Special Olympics of Centre County at P.O. Box 10465, State College, PA 16805or State College Presbyterian Church at 132 West Beaver Ave., State College, PA 16801. Online condolences and signing of the guest book may be entered at www.kochfuneralhome.com.