Helen "Pudge" Edinger, age 92, of Green Bay, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving husband, Jim, and her 4 adult children on Sunday, October 25, 2026.

She was born November 26, 1933, in Cambria, Wisconsin to Benjamin and Marjorie Jones Healy. Her childhood was spent on the family farm where she attended a one-room school house.

In 1953, Pudge met the love of her life, Jim Edinger, while attending Ripon College. They were married two years later and eventually settled down in Green Bay after Jim completed his army service at Fort Bragg, NC. They raised 5 children while Pudge balanced her career as an English teacher. She touched the lives of countless students during her distinguished teaching career, earning several local awards while instructing at area high schools, including Pulaski, West, Southwest, Premontre, and Notre Dame, from 1957 to 1996.

Pudge generously volunteered her time and talents as a member of the Green Bay Service League. She was also celebrated for her remarkable acting ability and was a beloved presence at the Green Bay Community Theater, where she starred in numerous productions over a span of 35 years. Jim and Helen split their retirement years between winters in The Villages, FL and summers at the cabin on Archibald Lake.

Helen lived a vibrant and full life; she was a devoted wife and a nurturing mother and was loved by all who knew her. She is survived by her husband, James; children, Richard (Germaine) Edinger, Jayme (Jerry) Laabs, Craig (Beth) Edinger, and Blake Edinger (Tina Kurth); daughter-in-law, Deanne Edinger, 8 grandchildren and 1 great-grandson.

Helen was preceded in death by her son, Montfort "Monty" Edinger; grandson, Benjamin C. Edinger; parents, Benjamin and Marjorie.

A private family celebration of life will be held at a later date. To send online condolences, please go to www.BlaneyFuneralHome.com.

The family is grateful to the caregivers at Emerald Bay and St. Croix Hospice who treated Helen with dignity and tenderness.

Pudge's love remains a guiding presence for all who knew her.