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Shirley Helmink Obituary
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Shirley was born in Holland to Henry and Julia Visser on September 11, 1926. Her parents and brother, Roger Visser, all preceded her in death.
She went to Holland High School and Hope College, earning her teaching degree. For over 30 years she taught Elementary students, which consisted mostly of teaching Kindergarteners in Holland. Shirley had a love of tennis. She played on a travel team and participated in the Senior Olympics, winning several medals with her double's partners. Shirley also played golf with family and friends. She was a member of Central Park Reformed Church where she taught Sunday School, bowled on the church team, and volunteered for many other activities.
Shirley's husband, Cecil, preceded her in death in July 2018. Her son, Jim, passed in 2017. Surviving are her children, Doug (Mary) Helmink of Raleigh, NC, Diane (Jim) Wertz of Belmont, MI; daughter in-law, Stephanie Helmink of Conroe, TX; her nine grandchildren, Maegan (Dan) Johnson, Holden Helmink, Chloe Helmink, Alison (John Mark) Baucom, Jenna (Mike) Schaefer, Mitch (Caroline) Helmink, Max (Lori) Helmink, Andrew (Jamie) Wertz, Erinn (Joseph) Schmitt, and twelve great grandchildren.
The visitation will be from 11-1 pm, Thursday, August 21, 2025 at Dykstra Funeral Home-Mulder Chapel, 188 W 32nd Street in Holland. A graveside service will be held at Graafschap Cemetery, August 21, 2025 at 1:15pm with Pastor Marc Nelesen officiating.
A donation may be made to Central Park Church, 614 Myrtle Ave, Holland, MI 49423, in memory of Shirley.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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188 West 32nd St, Holland, MI 49423
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