Reverend Helen Velonis passed away peacefully at her daughter’s home in Palm Springs, Calif., on Dec. 5, 2009. She died of prolonged heart complications.
Helen was born Oct. 26, 1933 to Aphrodite and Costas Velonis in Astros, Greece. In 1949 she immigrated to the United States with her father, stepmother, Xanthi, sister, Stamatina and brother Angelo. She worked and resided in California until 1975, when she moved to Minnesota and began her worldwide Ministry. She established and pastored Jesus Is Lord Church in Lyle, Minn., as her headquarters.
Helen is remembered for her deep love for Jesus Christ, unconditional love for others, generous spirit and uncompromising preaching of the Gospel. She was a world traveled evangelist, ministering in 54 countries. She established several orphanages and churches around the world.
Helen is survived by her daughter, Venus Velonis Pierce; son in-law, James Pierce; grandson, James Garrett Bacarella; granddaughter-in-law, Sara Bacarella; and three great-grandchildren, Jamie, Anthony and Christopher Bacarella; sisters and brother, Stamatina Hackney, Tasia and Angelo, Lani and Kelly Carlson, Terry and Jennifer Carlson, Steven Carlson Katie, Justin, Matthew, Mindy and Anne Carlson.
There will be a private service held by her family, in Palm Springs, Calif., on Dec. 26, 2009, at 1 p.m.
A memorial service will be held Feb. 8, 2010 at 7 p.m. at Resurrection Life Church, 16397 Glory Lane, Eden Prairie, MN 55344.
Condolences and memorials can be sent to: Venus Velonis Pierce, 12 Lazy C Ranch Road, Palm Springs, CA 92262.