12/13/2021
It is with a very heavy heart that we share this news. Helen Woodruff passed away a couple of hours ago. Longtime, loyal friend Peggy Scott Huson shared the news with Vito Magrone shortly after.
Helen was an inspiration to us all, actively dancing well into her 90s. Her favorite dance was the waltz. At one point, surgery kept her away from Ballroom City Inc. for a short time. At her age, most would have given up dancing for good. Before we knew it, Helen was back on the dance floor. When asked about Helen, Vito said, "To be perfectly honest with you, Helen is a very smooth follower, and a great dancer. She is better than some who are half her age."
Ballroom City was Helen's favorite place to dance for decades. She was personal friends with owner Mary Thygesen. Always one to pitch in and help, Helen would serve water, snacks and coffee, and clean up. Her choice to help without any obligation to do so is a true testament to her character. She did this between dances, tirelessly, while people much younger would sit on the sidelines and look on. Some would need a rest after dancing. Not Helen!
Helen was always quick with a smile or a joke and became very close to many of the BRC "regulars". Many of you who are reading this are included in that group of friends she had. We all have many different stories to share about Helen, and I hope you take a moment to include one here in her honor. One thing we all can agree on for sure: Helen is dancing up there in heaven today!
Rest in peace, my friend. You lived an incredible life and will be missed by many.
