Helen Maria Korpi Vail

Helen Maria Korpi Vail, of Winhall, VT, departed in peace on July 5, 2023. In 1926 at the age of four, Helen immigrated from Finland to the United States with her parents, John and Hilda Korpi, and her brother William. They traveled on the White Star Line, "Magestic", the largest steam ship in the world at the time. Shortly after, the family moved to Winhall, VT in 1927, where they eventually settled on Lower Taylor Hill Rd. Helen was predeceased by her husband of 58 years, J. Robert Vail, and her two sons; USCG Captain Robert Vail and Theodore Vail. She was also predeceased by her brother William Korpi, and two sisters, Lillian H. Chapin and Miriam K. Alexopoulos. Helen is survived by two daughters, Debora Vail Zolnoski of Clarkdale, AZ, and Irene H. Kreissle (Richard), of Keene, NH. Helen is also survived by two grandchildren, Laura Zolnoski of Austin, TX, and Joe Zolnoski of Los Angeles, CA. There are also two step-grandchildren, Jeff and Jeremy Gagne, and thirteen nieces and nephews. Helen went to grammar school in Bondville at a one room school house which is now the Winhall Memorial Library. Her job was to get to school early and light the fire. Helen went to the University of Vermont where she earned a BA in Education. After three years at UVM, she enlisted in the Navy as a WAVE. She was stationed in San Diego, CA, as a pharmacist's mate. She was discharged in 1946 and returned to UVM to finish her degree. Helen was an elementary school teacher before marrying J. Robert Vail in 1948. They would have four children. Helen was an active mom, serving as President of the PTA, Cuba Scout Den Mother, and Girl Scout volunteer. Helen resurrected the Westborough, MA, Garden Club in the early 1970's. She served as President, and in 1982 was made an honorary member. Helen also organized the Green Mountain WAVES, unit 107, and traveled to Washington D.C. on the Honor Flight in 2014. She was also an active volunteer at the Bondville Fair. Helen loved gardening, and especially loved houseplants. She knew not only the common names, but hundreds of Botanical names. She enjoyed camping and hiking and visiting National Parks. A graveside service will be held at the Bondville Cemetery on Thursday July 20, 2023, at 11:00 am. Donations may be made to the Bondville Fair or to Habitats for Humanity.