She was born on November 8, 1929, in Houghton, a daughter of the late Walter and Blanche (Chaput) Riedy and was a graduate of the Chassell High School.

On October 21, 1950, she was married to Edwin A. “Ed” Manninen in Hancock. Helen and Ed opened Ed’s Auto Sales and Salvage on the Pilgrim Road in 1962. Ed passed away on June 22, 1999. Helen owned the business until 2013.

Helen was a devoted wife and mother who lovingly cared for her family. In her spare time she enjoyed crocheting and reading.

Surviving are three sons, Daniel (Barbara) Manninen of Laurium, Roger (Jeanne) Manninen of Chassell, Edward Manninen of Houghton; one daughter, Kathleen (Jim) Steger of Port St. Lucie, Florida; 10 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews and cousins; special friends, Doris Saari of Houghton, and Sue Cunningham; and her loving cat, Katie.

Besides her parents and husband, Helen was also preceded in death by a brother, Walter, Jr.; and a sister, Dorothy.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Houghton County Medical Care Facility for the wonderful care given to Helen during the time she was a patient at the nursing home.

Helen’s wishes were to be cremated with a graveside service which will take place at 1 p.m. on July 1, 2014, in the Forest Hill Cemetery in Houghton with Pastor Bucky Beach to officiate.

The Jukuri-Antila Funeral Home of Hancock, Antila Funeral Service, Inc. is handling the arrangements.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at antilafuneral.com.