Helen Reitsma

Helen lived her life with a strong conviction to faith and family. She was a straightforward woman whose strength, generosity, and willingness to serve others left a lasting impact on her family and community. She was never afraid to speak her mind, and those who knew her appreciated her honesty, wisdom, and unwavering love.

Helen will be forever loved and missed by her children, Brenda De Ruiter, Carolyn Spoor, Marie and Tony Callaghan, Lyn and Randy Hintz, Wes McBride, and Nadene Reitsma; her 22 grandchildren and their spouses; and her 32 great-grandchildren. She also leaves to mourn her brother, Richard Boonstra, and sisters-in-law, Elsie Reitsma, Carol Reitsma, and Joyce van Dijken.

Helen was predeceased by her husband of 38 years, Art (1993); daughter Arlene McBride (2023); son Jeffery Reitsma (2025); son-in-law Case De Ruiter (2009); her parents, Dirk and Alice; and her brothers and sisters, Fred, Sandra and Joe Lucas, John and Mary Boonstra, Barb Boonstra, Billy Boonstra, Bill Reitsma, Ted Reitsma, and Gerrit van Dijken.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, June 22, at 1:30 p.m. at the Barrhead Christian Reformed Church, with Rev. Ruth Lotholz officiating.

The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the staff of the Mayerthorpe Extended Care Centre for the exceptional care, compassion, and kindness shown to Helen during her time there. Their support and dedication brought comfort to Helen and her family and will always be remembered with gratitude.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice.