Helen W. Rinne

Helen was a resident of Auburn Hills for 8 years, formerly of Livonia for 36 years. She was a loving homemaker who was happily married to Wiljo “Bill” Rinne for over 71 years. During the Depression, she worked as a secretary for the Department of the Navy to help with the war effort. Helen and Bill generously welcomed many family members to live with them during the challenging years of that era. Helen enjoyed reading, scrabble, crossword puzzles, knitting, skating, dancing, camping and playing cards in bridge and pinochle clubs. She and Bill loved traveling, especially in Michigan. They took numerous trips to the Upper Peninsula to visit their childhood towns, Ahmeek and Copper City. They often referred to the Keweenaw Peninsula as “God’s Country” because of the area’s natural beauty. Bill referred to Helen as his Flower of the North. Helen was a volunteer for the March of Dimes and the United Way, and also spent time as a Brownie and Girl Scout Leader. She was active in the Tuesday Circle group at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Detroit. Helen’s greatest joy was spending time with family and friends. She taught us all that the most important thing in life is to love and be loved. We will all fondly remember her patient wisdom, optimism, gentle laughter and unconditional love. Beloved wife of the late Wiljo “Bill”. Dear mother of Janice R. Johnston (Frank) and the late Phyllis Bidigare. Loving grandmother of Karin (Phil) Grotenhuis, Kristin Jetke, Barbara (Bill) Harlow, John (Debbie) Bidigare, Julie (Dave) Holt and Sarah (Mike) Ziegele. Also survived by 15 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild. Funeral service Thursday 10:30a.m. at A.J. Desmond & Sons (Vasu, Rodgers & Connell Chapel), 32515 Woodward (btwn 13-14 Mile). Family will receive friends Wednesday 4-7p.m.