Helen Elizabeth Smith

Helen Elizabeth Smith, (March 21, 1921 - July 1, 2014) , age 93, left us for her heavenly home on July 1, 2014, with her family by her side. She had lived at Wellspring Lutheran Nursing Home in Fairview, Michigan, since May of 2012.
Helen was born on March 21, 1921 in Comins, Michigan. She was the daughter of Joseph Goldsmith and Lola (McIntire) Goldsmith. She was the oldest and only daughter with 5 younger brothers: Bill (Grace); Albert (Gail); Lawrence (Grace); Manford; and John. Helen had a great love for her parents and her brothers. They all preceded her in death.
She married Zenos "Zip" Hunt, who preceded her in death. They had two daughters: Rachel (Hunt) McLaren of Hillman;, Michigan and Violet (Hunt) Sutherland of Comins, Michigan. She had a step-daughter Velva (Hunt) Klute of Ohio who preceded her in death. She had 2 special sons-in-law: Dale McLaren (deceased) and James Sutherland. Helen had 7 grandchildren: Brad (Sheila) McLaren; Tim McLaren; Denise (Kevin) Wiggins; Robin Meier; Dawn (Dave) Stillwagon; Ronald Sutherland and John Sutherland (deceased); 13 great-grandchildren; and a soon to be great-great grandchild. Helen was a very special Grandma to all of her own and to anyone else that needed a Grandma.
A remebrance and tribute to Helen would not be complete without mentioning her life in "The Great Depression Era". She knew what it was like to go without. Her life was one of very hard work and many sacrifices; but she never complained. Helen was always one to do the tasks in front of her, and then some. She would share anything she had with you, even if it meant going without herself. She was a very giving and generous lady. As a young lady, Helen worked at the Carrie James Hotel in Comins, Michigan, which is still operating today. Helen loved to pick berries and vegetables and always canned her bountiful harvest. It sure tasted good come winter! She loved to clean and dust. Things were always in order at her home. She cleaned many homes in the town of Hillman; homes that would be castles in her eyes, compared to the humble home she lived in. Helen and Zenos "Zip", owned "Zip's Tavern" in Fairview, Michigan, which is now known as "The Wild Turkey Saloon". They moved to Hillman where they farmed and sold cream; which was a big undertaking with no electricity or running water. It was a very meager living indeed.
When Helen and "Zip" divorced, she moved to the Detroit area where she worked many years as a waitress. She was well-liked because she never met a stranger. She could talk to anyone. When she moved back "Up North" to Comins, Michigan, she married Bill Smith who preceded her in death. With the help of her daughter Violet, son-in-law Jim, brother Bill and his wife Grace, her home got built on the family property that she so loved on Island Lake Road, in Comins, Michigan. Helen was so proud of her home and all were welcome there. She enjoyed company and cooking family dinners. One of the highlights of each year for many years, was when she hosted the family reunion. She always cooked her special chicken which was enjoyed by all. She loved a good card game; everyone enjoyed playing cards with her, especially her grandchildren.
Helen was a member of the Eastern Star and also the Wild Turkey Federation. She enjoyed her visits to the Audubon Society. She loved feeding her birds and watching them. Helen loved life, so it was sad to see her wheelchair bound for the last few years. She never complained, and was always determined to try to keep getting up and moving, keeping a smile on her face. She will be missed and always loved. Helen holds a special place in the hearts of her family and those who cared for her at the Nursing Home. She really was one of a kind; a part of that very special generation. Helen never learned to drive, but her loving family was always there for her. As a resident at Wellspring Lutheran Nursing Home, Helen stole many hearts with her wit, her voice, her smile, her banter, and her fun-loving ways, and will be greatly missed by all who cared for her there, with such kindness and love. Her final days were also made more comfortable by the care and devotion of the many individuals from the nursing home.
We, the family of Helen Elizabeth Smith, would like to thank and remember the following nurses, CNA's, and staff members at Wellspring: Heather, who on the last day of Mother's life played the harp by her bedside so peacefully. In those early morning hours as Mother said goodbye, a heartfelt thank you to Ryan our RN, Jeannie and Anna, who were with us and lovingly caring for Mother. We recognize, too, Karl, Jason, Grace, Jessie, and especially two very specal ladies, Memory and Julia. To Charity the hairdresser, and all the staff that have made Mother's stay as comfortable as could be; our heartfelt thanks. It's hard to remember names, but if you were part of Mother's care, know that you were appreciated. To Dave and staff at Lashley Funeral Home in Mio, your kindness,compassion and helpfulness made things a little easier at a very hard time.
In accordance with Helen's wishes, cremation has taken place. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2014, at 11AM at Lashley Funeral Home, Mio, Michigan. Expressions of sympathy and remembrance of Helen may be shared with the family at this time.
Arrangements by Lashley Funeral Home, Mio, Michigan.