Helen Richards

Helen Marguerite Richards of Bellaire passed away peacefully at Meadowbrook Medical Care Facility on Friday, April 4, 2025. She was 96 years old.

Helen was born on May 30, 1928, in Northville, Michigan, daughter of Norman S, and Eva Merle (Greenman) Schoof. Having grown up in Plymouth, Michigan, Helen's family eventually moved to the Bellaire area during her high school years. Following graduation as class salutatorian from Bellaire High School in 1945, Helen attended Ferris State College, where she was enrolled In a stenography program. After graduating, she returned to Bellaire to work. Helen married Max E. Richards, also of Bellaire on May 8, 1947.

Helen (and Max) were deeply involved with the United Cerebral Palsy Association and other related organizations. Helen also participated in various church groups and committees throughout her life in Grand Rapids and Bellaire. After retirement, the couple returned to Bellaire, where Helen was involved in the Bellaire Friends of the Library and Bellaire Lioness Club. She was a member of the Bellaire Community United Methodist Church, serving on several committees over the years. Helen tapped into her creative talents through hobbies including ceramics, sewing, quilting, knitting/crocheting and gardening, and was an avid reader.  She shared Max's love for golf, camping, travel and cheering on the Michigan State Spartans football and basketball teams. She also enjoyed boating and spending time on Lake Bellaire.

Helen was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She truly cherished her time with family and friends. Helen is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 67 years, Max Richards of Bellaire. Also preceding her in death were her parents, Norman and Merle Schoof and her brothers, Jack Schoof and Robert Schoof.

She is survived by three daughters, Bonita Richards of Bellaire, Beverly Richards of Bellaire and Patti Richards Ide of Lansing. Also surviving are two granddaughters, Carli (Bobby) Rybkowski and Tori Ide and two great-grandchildren, Raelyn and Malakai.

A service to celebrate Helen's life is scheduled for Saturday, July 12, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Bellaire Community United Methodist Church, 401 N. Bridge St., Bellaire. Interment will take place at Lakeview Cemetery, Bellaire.

Memorial contributions may be made to Bellaire Community United Methodist Church (PO Box 235, Bellaire, MI 49615) or to a charity of your choice. 

Arrangements are in the care of the Bellaire Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign her online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com