Carol Helder

Carol Helder, age 81, of Grand Rapids, ran into her Savior's arms on Thursday, May 29, 2025, after a short battle with pancreatic cancer. Carol was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She found great joy in supporting her grandchildren and rarely missed an event—whether it was a sporting match, band concert, or school play, she was always there. With a true servant’s heart, Carol selflessly dedicated herself to her children and grandchildren, always putting their needs before her own. Summers spent camping in Pentwater with her family were among her favorite memories. She especially cherished sunny days at the beach with her girls. Carol was endlessly patient and never one to complain. Above all, her faith was the cornerstone of her life. She loved the Lord deeply and lived out her faith through quiet strength, kindness, and unwavering devotion. She was preceded in death by her son-in-law, Dave DeYoung. She will be lovingly remembered by her husband of 62 years, Ron Helder; children, Jeff and Sue Helder, Pam and Kevin Stevenson, Greg and Jennifer Helder, Melissa and Steve Sandel, Wendi and Chad Vostad, Amy and Brandon Dykstra; grandchildren, Karie and Eric Ingersoll, Caleb DeYoung, Marissa Stevenson and her fiancé, Xavier Daniels, Collin DeYoung, Abbi and Brant Zeerip, Jarod Dykstra and fiancée, Chloe Coughlin, Megan DeYoung, Alex Vostad, Isaac Dykstra, Sam Helder, Ethan Vostad, Ellory Dykstra, Alivia Vostad, Jacob Helder, Micah Dykstra; great-grandchildren, Emelia Ingersoll, Leo Ingersoll; brother, Ron and Marilyn Oom; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Diane and Dave Korhorn, Craig and Bev Helder, Don and Pat Helder, Doug and Avis Helder; and many nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held on Monday, June 2, at 11 a.m. at Ada Bible Church (Kentwood Campus) 2045 68th St. SE, Caledonia, with Pastor Kyle McRill officiating. The burial will take place at Blain Cemetery. Relatives and friends may visit with the family on Sunday, June 1, from 2-5 p.m. at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW. An additional  visitation will be held at the church on Monday from 10-11 a.m. prior to the service. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Faith Hospice and Right to Life of Michigan.