Helen E. Planz, 74, a 53-year resident of Palatine, died Wednesday in her home of complications from cancer. Mrs. Planz retired in 1992 as an operator of heat-sealing machinery at Standard Safety Co., manufacturers of industrial safety clothing and equipment in Palatine. “She was the best woman I ever knew,” said her husband, Edwin C.A. “She was very loyal and a good mother. She was in good spirits to the last.” Other survivors include three daughters, Paulette E. Reid, Susan L. Thomas and Nancy Loessl; a sister, Dorothy Schreiber; eight grandchildren; and two great-grandsons. Visitation will be from 4 to 9 p.m. Friday in St. Paul United Church of Christ, 144 E. Palatine Rd., Palatine, and from 9 to 10 a.m. Saturday, when a service will begin in the church.
