Helen Clouser

Gladstone, MI

Helen W. Clouser, age 102, of Gladstone, passed away on Sunday, July 20, 2025 at Bishop Noa Home in Escanaba.

Helen was born on January 8, 1923 in Rapid River, MI, the daughter of Lyda and Andrew (Bennett) Wils. She attended and graduated from Rapid River High School in 1941. She furthered her education at Northern Michigan University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education in 1948.

Helen was the first Physical Education teacher for Iron Mountain High School girls and elementary students. She was instrumental in developing their first Physical Education program.

In 1952, she accepted a 2 year position as a Physical Education critic teacher at Northern Michigan University’s John D. Pierce Laboratory School. In 1954, Helen was awarded a graduate assistantship at University of Illinois where she earned her Master of Science degree in Health and Physical Education. Helen also was the assistant director at Girl Scout Camp Timber Trail during the summer of 1948 until 1952.

In 1955, Helen taught Health and Physical Education at Maine Township High School in Park Ridge, IL. She proudly served as their Department Chairperson from 1959 until 1972. She was proud to have Hillary (Rodham) Clinton and Harrison Ford as students.

Helen was united in marriage to John J Clouser in August of 1965. John was Principal at Maine Township High School. Upon John’s retirement in 1979, the couple enjoyed spending winters in Crystal River, FL. and summer and fall at Corner Lake cabin until 2000 when the couple moved to Gladstone. John preceded Helen on April 30, 2010.

The couple also enjoyed many trips around different countries in the world. From Belgium to Italy they explored the world.

Helen is survived by a brother, Francis Wils of Panorama City, CA. and sister, Patricia Way of Wells, MI. as well as many fond nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, John Clouser, Helen is preceded in death by brothers, Everett (Eugenia) Wils, Lawrence (Cleo) Wils, James “PJ” (Eunice, Karen) Wils, Ben Wils, Gerald (Esther) Wils and sister, Theresa Ann.

Family will receive friends on Wednesday, July 23, 2025 from 3:00 until 5:00 PM at the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone. Mass of Christian burial is scheduled for 5:30 PM at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Wells, MI with Rev. Fr. Joseph Boakye Yiadom officiating. A meal will follow in the parish hall. Helen will be laid to rest in the Gardens of Rest Cemetery.