Helen M. (Johnson) Haaksma

Helen M. Haaksma age 74 of Spring Lake passed away July 9, 2016 unexpectedly in St. Paul, MN. Helen was born September 17, 1941 to Philip and Genevieve (Chaperon) Johnson in Boston, MA. She married Curtis D. Haaksma on August 17, 1963 in Farmington, MI. He preceded her in death on December 14, 2009. Helen received her Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Central Michigan University. She was an educator in both Grand Haven and Spring Lake Public School Systems for 18 years. Helen was a member of the former Christ Community Church. She enjoyed gardening, playing Bridge and reading. Helen was happiest spending time with her children and grandchildren at their various sporting events and activities. Her life was characterized by her love and generosity to her family and friends; she will be deeply missed. Helen will be lovingly remembered by her daughter Amy (Gary) Smithson of Grand Rapids, MI; sons, Curtis A. (Ann) Haaksma of Spring Lake, Timothy (Danielle) Haaksma of West Olive; grandchildren, Emily and Bradley Smithson and Andrew, Owen, Joanna Haaksma; brother, Philip (Connie) Johnson of Beaverton, OR; in-laws, Jim and Barb Hoekzema of Spring Lake; many nieces and nephews. The funeral service for Helen will be 11:00 am Friday, July 15, 2016 at Klaassen Family Funeral Home with Rev. Peter Theune officiating. Interment will be in Spring Lake Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet with the family 5:00-8:00 pm Thursday, July 14, 2016 at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Love, INC. Please visit www.klaassenfuneralhome.com to sign Helen’s online guest book.