Helen Hammond

Helen Hammond, 93, of Keene, NH and formerly of Peterborough, died Tuesday, October 27, 2015 at the Genesis Healthcare Center in Keene after a period of failing health.

Helen was born in 1922 in Hoboken, NJ, daughter of the late Robert and Helen (Fischer) Stegmann. Helen won a full scholarship to Wagner Memorial Lutheran College after graduating as Valedictorian of her high school class. She continued her education at Columbia University, Long Island University, and Franklin pierce College where she graduated Magna cum laude with a B.S. in Biology.

Helen had a lifelong interest in the arts, particularly music and dance. She studied music and movement therapy at Boston University, and expanded her training at the College of St. Mark and St. John in London, and the University of NH.

A woman of amazing energy, curiosity, and intelligence, she raised five children while working full time and supporting her husband’s many interests. After her beloved husband, Harold Hammond, passed away in 1987, Helen studied and taught Tai Chi, puppetry, exercise, movement, and music. She loved to sew, travel, and spend time with her husband and family. She was admired and loved by many people.

Helen is survived by her children: Susan Runge, Bruce Hammond, April Weed, Melody Fitzsimmons, and Russell Hammond in addition to five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Family and friends are warmly invited to Calling Hours on Friday, October 30, 2015 from 12:00 Noon to 2:00 PM at the Cournoyer Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 33 River Street, Jaffrey, NH.

A family graveside service will be held afterward.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice at HCS, PO Box 564, Keene, NH 03431, or to the Activities fund at Genesis Healthcare Center, in care of Julia Zan Houdt, 677 Court Street, Keene, NH 03431