Helen Yonker Draz

Helen Virginia Draz (nee Yonker) passed away on March 27, 2025, from natural causes. Helen was born on September 1, 1929, to Jacob and Alberta Yonker in Columbus, Ohio. She grew up in Grandview Heights and graduated from University School in 1947. She attended Baldwin-Wallace College and then Ohio State University. After college, she moved to San Diego, where she married Richard “Dick” Draz, her lifelong love and partner of 68 years.

Helen was actively involved at St. Mark’s United Methodist and First United Methodist churches and cherished the many friends she made there. She sang in various choirs, participated in the United Methodist Women’s Club, eagerly attended her Koinonia class, and engaged in numerous Bible studies. Always willing to lend a hand, she made contributions in a behind-the-scenes manner.

When Helen’s children were grown, she began working for the San Diego Community College District. There, she served as the Administrative Assistant for the Dean of City College and later moved to Miramar Community College. She was a competent, supportive, and well-loved member of the colleges, retiring after more than 20 years of service.

After retirement, Helen and Dick traveled the world by train, cruise ship, barge, and plane. Their love for adventure kept them on the lookout for their next trip, often traveling with close friends or family. One memorable journey included a family cruise to Alaska for Helen and Dick’s 50th wedding anniversary.

Helen also supported the San Diego music and theater scene enjoying tickets to the Old Globe, Concerts on the Bay, and the Symphony. She and her husband had San Diego Chargers and Padres season tickets for many years. She enjoyed tailgating with their friends but after too many losing Charger seasons she opted out.

Helen’s greatest joy in life was her family. Together with Dick, they created a loving home where they raised three children. She volunteered in various ways for her children’s activities, ranging from sports to scouts to church choir and band. She took a keen interest in her children, regularly checking in to support their endeavors and remain active in their lives. Helen was instrumental in supporting Dick during his long coaching career, often stepping back to allow him to pursue his passions.

Helen was a devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, mother-in-law, grandmother, and friend. She always took an interest in people and truly cherished the many friends she made over the years.

Helen is preceded in death by her husband, Dick, sisters Louise and Sarah, and her granddaughter Rebecca. She is survived by her three children: John (Cathy) Draz from Knightdale, NC; Kathy (Tom) Zopatti from Greensboro, NC; and Dan (Patricia) Draz from Naperville, IL. Additionally, she leaves behind grandchildren Courtney, Cody, Quinn, Wyatt, and great-grandchildren Ava and Olivia, along with several other loving relatives.

Please join us for a celebration of Helen’s life on Sunday, June 1, 2025 at 2:30 PM at First United Methodist Church.