Camplese, Helen (Shackelford)

Helen Camplese, of Enfield CT, beloved wife and mother, passed away on February 13, 2023 at the age of 76. She was born on November 16, 1946 in Hackensack, New Jersey to John and Margaret (Michels) Shackelford. Helen's father was a career member of the United States Air Force, and grew up living all over the United States and overseas, attending 12 different schools. She was always proud of being an “Air Force brat.” She met her husband, Romeo, in 1964 while he was stationed at the Paine Field Air Force base in Everett, Washington. They married on May 21, 1966 and shared 56 wonderful years together. Helen knew she was lucky to have found such a special man. Together they enjoyed playing cribbage, staying at historic inns, going to auctions, and especially eating at quaint restaurants. Theirs was a truly happy marriage. Family and home were Helen's top priority and her life revolved around that. She loved being a wife, mother and making her house a home filled with memories and traditions. Over the years, Helen tole painted, crocheted, embroidered and sewed many items for her home. Helen loved antiquing and had dreams of opening her own shop, “Brick Path Antiques – Specializing in Cozy.” She was always drawn to New England, and for years made several trips from Washington to visit. She loved the historic towns, old homes, changing seasons, and colonial charm. After retirement, Helen and Romeo decided to move to New England. Helen loved decorating her home year-round for all the seasons and holidays. This included her declaration that January should be Snowman Month! Fall was Helen's favorite season because it meant lighting candles and spending cozy evenings in front of the fire, reading or working on puzzles with her husband. She had a special affection for gingerbread men, vintage Valentines, and Forget-Me-Not flowers. Helen was especially interested in genealogy. She was an active member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Penelope Terry Abbey Chapter. She was also a member of the National Society Daughters of Colonial Wars, the Connecticut Society United States Daughters of 1812, and the National Society Daughters of the Union 1861-1865. Helen's granddaughters, Megan and Emily, were the joy of her life. She was actively involved in their lives and cherished the time she spent with them during their many sleepovers and outings. Because of them, she became quite skilled with Facetime and iPad messaging! She attended every activity they were involved in - preschool events, ballgames, swimming lessons, school concerts, ballet and music recitals. She especially loved creating and hosting themed tea parties for them. Helen was often making them things such as handmade cards, memory scrapbooks, quilts, and scarves. She always told them “You make my heart smile.” She was preceded in death by her husband, Romeo, and her son, Kenneth. She is survived by her daughter Karen (Ed) Migliaro of Marlborough CT, granddaughters Megan and Emily, and brother John (Marcia) Shackelford. A private family memorial service will be held. For online condolences, please visit www.leetestevens.com.