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Helen Delores Erhardt
Born: 12/24/1937
Died: 11/30/2023
Age: 85
Community: Durand, MI
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Helen Dolores Erhardt, a beacon of love and creativity, passed away on November 30, 2023, after a courageous battle with dementia. Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at 1:00pm at Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes, Durand Chapel, Rev. Dawn Russell will celebrate. The Erhardt family will receive friends at the funeral home beginning at 11:00am.
Born on December 24, 1937, in Flushing, Michigan, to the late Clarence and Helen Rathbun, Helen's life was a tapestry of service, family, and artistic expression. She departed from this world at the Durand Senior Care and Rehab Center, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and dedication. In 1972, Helen's life blossomed anew when she married Jack Erhardt in Flint, Michigan. Together, they navigated the joys and challenges of life, reinforcing the bonds of love and partnership. Helen's nurturing spirit was evident in her role as a mother to her beloved children, Carol Purves, Jim (Tammy) Purves, Jeff (Shannon) Purves, Gail (Bobby) Hubbard, Elaine (Rob) Zuchowski, and Susan (Carl) Ludington, along with several Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren.
Helen's professional journey was marked by her thoughtful engagement with the community. Her tenure at the Brown Clinic in Owosso and the YMCA in Owosso reflected her commitment to health and well-being. Her creative flair shone brightly during her time as a floral designer at Lasers Flower Shop, where she brought joy and beauty to countless lives. Helen's passion for service extended to her role as a tutor at Linden Elementary School, where she touched the lives of many young learners with her patience and wisdom.
A woman of many talents and interests, Helen was deeply involved in her community. She dedicated 15 years to the Byron Lioness Club, where her leadership and enthusiasm were invaluable. As a Brownie Leader, she inspired young girls to be confident and kind-hearted individuals. Her role as a past secretary of the Shiawassee County Humane Society showcased her love for animals and her commitment to their welfare.
Helen's thoughtfulness was also evident in her tradition of wrapping Christmas gifts for shut-ins for a decade, a testament to her caring nature and desire to spread cheer to those in need. Her actions spoke volumes about her character, always putting others before herself and seeking ways to make the world a little brighter.
The words loving, creative, and thoughtful encapsulate Helen's essence. She was a woman whose heart knew no bounds, whose hands created beauty, and whose mind was always considering the needs of others. Her legacy is etched in the memories of those she loved and the countless lives she enriched through her selfless acts.
Helen now joins her predeceased family members, including her parents Clarence and Helen Rathbun, as well as Samuel L. Cook and Edna L. Brown. Her spirit, however, continues to live on through her husband, children, and all those who had the privilege of knowing her.
memorial contributions in Helen's name can be directed to the Shiawassee County Humane Society.
Condolences, memories, and pictures can be shared at WatkinsFuneralHomes.com |
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| Visitation |
| Date: |
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12/6/2023 |
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11:00 AM |
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| Funeral Service |
| Date: |
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12/6/2023 |
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1:00 PM |
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| Location: |
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Watkins Brothers Funeral Home - Durand Chapel
501 N. Saginaw St.
Durand, MI 48429Get a Map to this location...
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