Helen Frances Page Kalmes, born May 7, 1935 in Joplin, MO to Hazel Frances and Francis Albert. She is survived by her 10 grandchildren; a daughter, Traci Van Gelder, and a son, Bob Flynt. She was preceded in death by her husband, Fred Kalmes, and her son, Michael Flynt. Grandma was an individual who carried a unique perspective throughout her life. She never met a stranger; they were always friends she had not met. She was never stubborn, as she stubbornly claimed; she was just "set in my ways." I didn't mind driving in unknown territory with her, because I never felt we were lost, as she always assured me, "We're just out exploring." And, as the years went by and we grandchildren grew taller and began to notice the lack of height she possessed, she hastened to reply, "Well, I don't have to bend so far to smell the roses." She was known as the "hat lady." Her collection of hats rivals a museum. She was never afraid of what people thought, and her hats reflected her self-confidence. The more the years went by, she became more adventurous. She even got her ears pierced after 65 years. We teased her that in a few more years she was going to get a tattoo. I bet she would have. Grandma wouldn't take no for an answer and she was passionate in all her endeavors. We also knew not to challenge her threats, because she wouldn't hesitate to carry them out. She loved her family, and was committed to caring for them. She will be missed by all, but I can hear her saying, "I'm not gone, I'm just taking another journey." And Grandma, I hope you don't get lost. The following tribute was written by Helen's great-granddaughter, Ruth Martin: Whenever Oma comes to mind, I think of her, sitting on her favorite chair, doing a crossword puzzle or laughing at something we said. We lived in Iowa, and couldnt visit her often, but we loved when we did. Shed bring out a treat shed made that afternoon and wed talk, or have tea parties, or watch something together. She would talk about her children, or tell stories about things that happened long ago. Oma was our Great-grandma. She loved to spoil us, and for each of our birthdays, she picked out a special card to give us. When we would send our artwork or cards to her, shed put them up on a wall where she could see them from anywhere in the room. She was so proud when my parents named my sister after her. She would brag, "This is my granddaughter, Ester Frances, shes named after me. Isnt she beautiful" Now that Oma is gone. She will be sorely missed, but no matter what happens, I will always think of her as a great grandma. Memorial Service New Hope United Methodist Church Monday, November 25, 2019 11:00 AM 11600 N. Council Road Oklahoma City, OK