Ruth M. Helzer

Ruth M Helzer (Metz) of Grand Rapids, MI, passed away on June 9, 2021. Born January 22, 1932, in Monroe, MI, she was the daughter of John Metz Sr. and Marie (Maska) Metz. She was baptized at Trinity Lutheran church February 14, 1932. Ruth was confirmed on May 28, 1944 at East Immanuel Lutheran church in Ida, MI where she was also married to Demar Helzer on June 27, 1953. Her confirmation memory verse was Matthew 24:13, “He/She who shall endure until the end, the same shall be saved”.

After marriage, Ruth and Denny lived in Redford Township, MI. They were active members of Faith Lutheran Church where Ruth enjoyed playing in the bell choir. She was active in the homeowner’s association and was known as the “cookie lady”. The children in the neighborhood knew they could come to her house for cookies after school. Ruth was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother.

At age 60, she went to Schoolcraft college and obtained a Childhood Development degree. She used her degree to work in the church pre-school.

Surviving is her husband of 67 years, Demar; her 4 children: Kay, Jack (Suzanne), Tom (Constance), Dave (Amy Brose); seven grandchildren: Daniel (Heather), Mark (Catherine), Scott (Roseanna), Ryen (Jazmin), Brett (Brittany), Kyle (Anna Cacciaglia), and Alan (Renee Gumbert); three great grandchildren: Lillianna, Henry and Norah. Also surviving are many nephews and nieces.

Preceding her in death are her parents, John & Marie (Maska) Metz Sr.; brother and sisters, John (Mary Ellen) Metz Jr., Katherine (Maury) LaFrance, Joan (Donald) Ruettinger, and Eileen Kanitz.