Theresa M. Helm, 98, of Goodrich, formerly of Utica and Villard, Minnesota went to be with Jesus on November 29, 2022.

Theresa was born July 16, 1924 in Tracy, Minnesota to the late Edward and Mary McKigney. She was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, Edward Helm, whom she met at Dodge Truck. They were married on September 10, 1949, and raised two daughters, Phyllis (Larry) Garris of Grove, Oklahoma and Peggy (Bob) Meganck of Goodrich, Michigan. Theresa was one of 16 children, preceded in death by six brothers and five sisters: Vince McKigney, Mary Baimgartner, Edward McKigney, Charles McKigney, Helen Grandy, Rita Jansen, James McKigney and Baby Joseph McKigney. Survived by three sisters and once brother, Geraldine Rasmusson, Alice Kinney, Dorothy Peters and Leo McKigney and many nieces and nephews, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Theresa was a homemaker after a short stint at Dodge Truck, she spent her time caring for her family, and traveling with her husband and family. She would always talk about their yearly trips back to Minnesota and the farming life she knew so well. Theresa also spent many years (25) volunteering at the Nearby New Shop, a charity outreach of Utica Presbyterian Church until moving to Goodrich. She stained all the wood for Wren in the Willow craft shows until 95.

Theresa could be frequently seen walking from her condo to downtown Goodrich or to Wren in the Willow Country Store to work with her daughter Peggy. Many remember her as a cheerful greeter and helper to the customers. And if you visited during an open house event you will remember her famous lemon cookies. She never failed to strike up a conversation. After the closure of the store Theresa remained active by continuing to take her daily walks in town. She also walked with her daughter, Pogo the dog, and her friends in the condos. Theresa encouraged her neighbors by walking with them or helping those who needed help to walk as well, clocking 2 to 4 miles daily well into her upper 90s. She was outgoing and stopped to talk with many along the way. Those who knew her referred to her as ‘Mom’. To her grandchildren or great grandchildren, she was Granny. Her smile was contagious to all. Many say they couldn’t believe her ability to continue her daily routine in spring, summer, fall and winter. She was a living and giving soul. In her last two years, she moved in with her daughter and son-in-law. There she would visit with friends and customers during the barn shows. Theresa continued to visit up until the last two weeks. McLaren Hospice was an important part of her daily life, she couldn’t wait for their visits.  Theresa also looked forward to daily phone conversations with her daughter Phyllis, as they always lifted her spirits, and were a bright spot to her day. She continued to walk for as long as she was able, only restricted by her walker. Peggy & Bob took her many places where she could walk inside and still get her exercise. She will be a missed icon on the streets of Goodrich and at our barn shows.

Theresa donated her body to Wayne State University’s body bequest program where she is now teaching anatomy to first year medical students, as Wayne State University describes her new adventure. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to McLaren Hospice, 1515 Cal Dr., Davison MI 48423. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date.