Obituary of Helen Chalmers McNell

Helen Chalmers McNell, a long time resident of Darien, died peacefully in her home on Wednesday, March 14, 2007. She was 96. Born February 14, 1911 in Hastings, Nebraska, Helen was the daughter of the late John and Jennie Chalmers. She graduated from DePaul University in Chicago and worked for Goldman Sachs in Chicago and New York City. Helen served as Vice Chairman of the Republican Town Committee. She was an active member of the community and received a citation from the State of Connecticut General Assembly for her immense and lasting contribution to Darien and the Entire State of Connecticut as commemorated by her receiving the 1988 Darien Chamber of Commerce Hall of Fame for Lifetime Achievement Award. Helen volunteered for the Commission on Aging, Darien Community Center, Darien Red Cross, Senior Center, Library, and the Over 60 Club. Helen also served as a Justice of Peace marrying many couples on her cherished wrap-around porch. Among many interests, she enjoyed sailing, gardening, reading, fishing, and was a dedicated follower of many sports including the Darien High School Volleyball, Women’s Lacrosse and Gymnastics teams. She was awarded the Yellow rock trophy for best female sailor at the Norwalk Yacht Club. Her husband of 65 years, Robert A. McNell and her son, Michael Kollman McNell predeceased Helen. She is survived by her children, Barry A. McNell of Darien; Bonnie Trexler of Summit, NJ and Kate Brauner of Cupertino, CA. Eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild also survive her. There will be a memorial service to celebrate Helen’s life on Thursday, April 19, 2007 at 11:00 AM in the Chapel at Noroton Presbyterian Church, 2011 Boston Post Road, Darien. Memorial donations to be made in Helen’s memory to the Darien Library, 35 Leroy Avenue, Darien, CT 06820 or the Darien Community Association, 274 Middlesex Road, Darien, CT 06820. Funeral Home: Edward Lawrence Funeral Home 2119 Post Road Darien, CT USA 06820