Helen M. DeJonge. 96, passed away on December 19,2024 and although her family grieves her absence, we know she has found perfect joy with her Creator. In 1950, Helen married the love of her life, Luke DeJonge, and they were married for 56 years. When Luke was diagnosed with Parkinson's, the woman who lived life with quiet resolve found incredible strength when she cared for him while he suffered through the debilitating effects of Parkinson's. At a time when many women chose not to work outside the home, Helen chose a different path. In addition to caring for her family, Helen worked at Dickinson Press as a proofreader and then as a secretary for the Grand Rapids Christian Schools Administrative Offices. To balance her work and personal life, she made sure she was home when her three kids got home from school, and she managed to be able to have the summers off until they were old enough to be home alone. She was also active in her church and taught Sunday School for many years. Everyone who knew Helen remembers her kindness, her inner goodness and her beautiful smile. Despite advancing dementia in her final few years, Helen's smile never faded, and it was a gift her family will always cherish. She doted on and fiercely loved and was loved by her eight grandchildren and six, soon to be seven, greatgrandchildren. Her best friend since early grade school, Shirlee Gillesse, was also an important part of Helen's life and remained a devoted friend until Helen's death. Helen's family is so grateful for Shirlee's love and support during Helen's dementia and declining health. Helen was preceded in death by her son Doug and brother Floyd (Flip) Cook. She is survived by her sister Jackie (Keith) VanderWeyden, daughters Deb (Steve) DeHaan, Kristi (Steve) Slotsema, daughter-in-law Nancy Pranger; grandchildren Lydia (David) Haarmann and Joel DeJonge, Kelsey (Ross) Hathaway, Nathan (Morgan) DeHaan, Stephanie (Max) Boven, Audrey (Nate) Williams, Lucas (Kennedy) Slotsema, Claire Slotsema,; great grandchildren Henry, June, Theodore, Walter, Rose and Sullivan. A special thanks to the loving, compassionate, and exceptional staff at Holland Home's Breton Living Center. Helen's family will always cherish the way they cared for and loved on her. They will be missed. Helen's memorial will be at First Church (651 MLK Jr. St. SE) Sunday, January 5, at 4:00 p.m. with visitation at 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, you can donate to Faith Hospice or Holland Home.