BANGOR – Helena Ann “Ditta” Lander, 72, died at a Bangor nursing home after a long illness on Sunday, Jan. 18, 2004. She was born in Bangor, in 1931, daughter of Samuel and Doreen Wilson. With the grace of God, Helena has been reunited with her husband, William J. Lander Sr. Helena is survived by her six children, Jacalyn Lander Millard of South Portland, William J. Lander Jr. of East Holden, Timothy Lander of Eddington, Kathleen Tedesco of Westbrook, Christopher Lander of Orrington, and Thomas Lander of Bangor. She is also survived by her brother, Edward “Ted” Wilson of Brunswick. Helena was a proud and loving grandmother to her 15 grandchildren. A graduate of John Bapst High School, Class of 1948, Helena was known for her “amazing wardrobe, dancing feet, flair for fun, open heart, open house, and the notion that life is a dream.” She enjoyed hosting many gatherings with her family, friends and co-workers at her home. “The more the merrier” was her motto. Helena also spent many years crafting ceramic holiday decorations for her family that are now treasured heirlooms to be passed through generations. Above all, Helena loved to laugh. She always found joy in life, and did so until her final days. Friends are invited to meet with the family 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20, at Brookings-Smith Clark-Piper Chapel, 55 South Main St., Brewer. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 21, at St. Teresa’s Catholic Church, 425 South Main St., Brewer, with the Rev. Richard E. Harvey celebrant. Interment will be at Mount Pleasant Catholic Cemetery, Bangor. Those who wish to remember Helena in a special way may make gifts to the Eastern Agency on Aging, 450 Essex St., Bangor, ME 04401.
HELENA ANN “DITTA” LANDER
