Jan Sydney Helscher Martinec

Jan Sydney Helscher Martinec

Jan Sydney Helscher Martinec, 74, of Spring Mills, unexpectedly passed away Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026. Born July 27, 1951, in New Orleans, she was a daughter of the late Harold and Elaine Saunee Helscher. Her beloved husband of almost 55 years, David J. Martinec, survives.

Jan graduated summa cum laude from the Pennsylvania State University with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary and Kindergarten Education and later earned a Master of Science from Nova University. She devoted her life to nurturing young minds. She was the owner and operator of Whiz Kids Inn daycare, where she was affectionately known as “Miss Jan” to countless children. She later shared her expertise as an instructor at Lock Haven University, preparing future teachers with the same dedication and care she brought to her own early learning environments. Jan was also an active member of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), demonstrating her lifelong commitment to excellence in early childhood education.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Jan was a faithful member of Howard Christian Church for 45 years, actively involved in Missions, the Benevolence ministry and the Sunday School Children’s Program, reflecting her deep commitment to faith and community.

Jan shared a love for travel and adventure with her husband, David. Together, they explored the Eastern United States, enjoyed time at their Virginia timeshare and embarked on a memorable European river cruise along the Danube, visiting several countries. They also made multiple trips to Australia to spend cherished time with family, where one of the most unforgettable experiences was soaring above Victoria’s Yarra Valley in a hot air balloon.

Surviving in addition to her husband are two daughters, Wendy Leigh Martinec (Bill Gioftsidis) and Erin Martinec Puissegur (Dennis Peter); two sisters, Elaine Helscher Gaille and Denise Helscher Strauss (Bob); a brother, Mark F. Helscher; and sister-in-laws, Denise Mestayer Helscher and Christine C. Martinec. She is also survived by six beloved grandchildren, Zachary David Martinec Gioftsidis (Teagan), Mason Peter Martinec Gioftsidis, Spencer Thomas Martinec Gioftsidis, Eliza Jan Puissegur, Rivers Joseph Puissegur and Jacques Anton Puissegur. She was preceded in death by her parents, as well as a sister, Lynn Causey; a brother, Kurt Helscher; and brother-in-laws, Thomas Martinec and Rick Gaille. Visitation will be held on Friday, Jan. 16, 2026, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Howard Christian Church, 367 Walnut Street, Howard, PA 16841. A Memorial Service will follow at 6 p.m., with Pastor Don Crane officiating.

Light refreshments will be offered after the service.

The family respectfully requests no flowers, as Howard Christian Church is already beautifully adorned with Jan’s favorite Christmas poinsettias. Those wishing to honor her memory may instead contribute to The Benevolence Fund, c/o Howard Christian Church — a ministry that held a special place in Jan’s heart and where she devoted herself with steadfast dedication. Your gift will help continue the meaningful work to which she gave so much of her time and care.

Arrangements by Haky/Georgiana Centre County Funeral Home.