April 29, 1936 – February 27, 2025
SOUTHERN SHORES — Mrs. Helene Maria Kettner (née Ostler), 88, passed away on February 27, 2025, in Southern Shores, North Carolina.
Born in the mountains of Germany on April 29, 1936, in the town of Garmisch, she carried the warmth and resilience of her early years throughout her life. Known as Omi to her family, Helene had a deep appreciation for nature and would say that nature is her Church. She found joy in gardening at home and for years as a volunteer at the New Jersey Botanical Gardens at Skylands Manor in Ringwood, New Jersey, where she also raised her family for twenty-seven years. When her life moved from the mountains to New Jersey/New York then eventually to the sea, she volunteered her time baby-sitting sea turtle nests as a member of N.E.S.T., the Network for Endangered Sea Turtles. Her fondness for sea turtles reflected her gentle spirit and love for the natural world.
She was the loving wife of Hans Kettner from 1959 until his passing in 2001. She was also predeceased by her dear son Christian Kettner, and daughter-in-law Rita Gonzalez-Kettner, wife to George. Omi is lovingly remembered by her son, George Kettner of Southern Shores; her grandchildren, Sebastian Kettner, Grant Kettner, Raquel Kettner, Cosmo Kettner, and Miles Kettner; her daughter-in-law, Denise Broughton Kettner, wife to Chris of Clayton, North Carolina.
Helene’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew her. May she rest in peace.
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.
