Helen J. Koons, 86, died Sunday, June 23, 2013, at her home in Durango, Colo. A celebration of her life will be held at her home on 172 County Road 221 on Monday, July 1, 2013 from 5 to 8 p.m. Helen was born January 18, 1927, in Oak Park, Ill., to Andrew and Mary Anderson. Helen grew up in Oak Park and graduated from Oak Park High. She then enrolled into nursing school in Oak Park and shortly thereafter, she entered into the U.S. Army. It was while in the military that she met her future husband, William Koons, who was also enlisted. They moved to different areas every two years, but in 1969 they settled in Colorado Springs. While there, she was a nurse for the health department. In 1992, they moved to the Durango area and then Helen worked as nurse for insurance exams. She was a registered nurse for 46 years. "Helen's grandchildren were her everything," fondly recall her family. She was their biggest fan and supporter while they did motorcycle and 4H events. She also enjoyed bowling, horseback riding, going to the casino, playing Bingo and reading. She was a great cook and prepared the best beef stroganoff and potato salad. Helen also enjoyed listening to Willie Nelson, golfed faithfully and was a member of Hillcrest Golf Club. She is survived by Katherine (John) Koons-Dezendorf (daughter and son-in-law) of Durango, William (Corey Sue) Koons (son and daughter-in-law) of Durango, Raymond A. Koons (son) of Park City, Utah; grandchildren: Keely Dezendorf of Durango, Johnny Dezendorf of Durango, Kelly Koons of Park City, Drew Koons of Park City, Garrett Carrica of Grand Junction, Colo., Marion Lever (sister) of Mesa, Ariz., Andy Anderson (brother) of Phoenix, Ariz. and many other relatives. She was preceded in death by her husband, William, in 2000.