Helen Marie Brinkman

Helen Marie Brinkman, age 97, passed away on April 14, 2026. Born on May 11, 1928, in Cadillac, Michigan, Helen was the daughter of Dewitt Pierson and Thelma Whitney. She made her home in East Lansing, Michigan, and will be remembered with deep respect and enduring affection by all who knew her.

Helen shared a devoted marriage with William Edward Brinkman, and together they built a family that remained at the center of her life. Their years were marked by steadfast companionship and a love of seeing the world side by side, including travels to many destinations and several trips to Europe.

A woman of faithful commitment, Helen was a dedicated member of Faith Lutheran Church of Okemos. Her devotion found a lasting voice in music, as she sang in the church choir for 43 years—an offering of time, presence, and spirit that reflected the quiet constancy of her faith.

Helen also found joy in the simple, beautiful rituals of everyday life. She loved playing bridge, creating flower arrangements, and crafting—pursuits that spoke to her patience, creativity, and delight in sharing time with others. She also enjoyed trips to Soaring Eagle Casino, where she would meet friends for ladies’ weekends. Known for her thoughtfulness, Helen brought treats to the employees there, a small kindness that left a warm impression and reflected the regard so many had for her.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents, Dewitt and Thelma Pierson, her sisters Joyce Parker, Jeanette Depew, and Lois Powell, and by her beloved husband, William Brinkman.

She is survived by her three children: Marsha (Mike) Bailey of the Villages, FL; Christine (Jack) Lynch of Lakeland, FL; and William Brinkman of East Lansing, MI. She is also survived by eight grandchildren: Christopher Bailey, Angela Lopera, Jack Lynch, Sean Lynch, Heather Delany-Lynch, Conor Lynch, Joshua Brinkman, and Jessica Brinkman; as well as 20 great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Faith Lutheran Church of Okemos, 4515 Dobie Rd., Okemos, MI 48864.