Helen was the youngest of nine children born to Conrad and Anna (Buist) Haveman. She grew up in Allegan County and graduated from Martin High School. Between 1955 and 1962, Helen was employed as a telephone switchboard operator. Her brother Larry introduced her to Ray, and they married in 1959. While raising four children, the family repeatedly relocated between West Michigan and South Holland, IL, plus Towanda, PA.
Helen was an avid reader and a former member and president (1977-’78) of the Hudsonville Friends of the Library. In 1979 she resumed working part-time at The Old School House restaurant in Borculo, followed by Russ’ in South Holland/Lansing, IL. After relocating back to Holland, Helen was hired in 1995 by Creative Dining Services where she hosted and served at Hope’s Cook Dining Hall, plus did catering. After 25 yrs there, she retired in August, 2020.
Helen especially enjoyed painting with different media. She was a highly accomplished porcelain china artist (40 yrs) and member of the Lakeshore World Organization of China Painters. As a member of Holland Friends of Art, she participated over 20 yrs in Holland’s Art in the Park, including her last show in 2019. As a member of the Saugatuck Douglas Art Club, she participated in the annual Clothesline Art Show.
Helen is survived by her children: Renee De Vries of Columbia, MD, Lisa (Bill) Aukeman of Hudsonville, Tim De Vries of Holland, and Tamara (Chris) Tuinstra of Cedar Lake, IN; her grandchildren and great-grandchildren; many cousins, nephews, and nieces, especially Lou Ann K., and friends, especially Bernice V. and Shirley D. She was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Raymond; her parents; her sisters Evelyn, Ruth, Bernice, Marjorie, Crystal, and Laura, and brothers Carl and Lawrence.
Relatives and friends may visit the family on Wednesday, October 14, from 1 to 3 pm at Lakeshore Memorial Services in Holland, MI. A private service and interment will take place at Pilgrim Home Cemetery in Holland.
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