Helen Parritt

Although there were so many things that Helen Parritt enjoyed throughout her long and fruitful life, there was nothing of greater importance than the family she loved more than life itself. She was a truly devoted wife and mother who considered it pure joy to care for the needs of her loved ones. A gifted crafter, Helen was frugal and resourceful in her quest to be a good steward of the many blessings in her life. With her unwavering faith as her constant companion, she made a significant impact in the lives of so many within her reach. Helen leaves behind a brilliantly colored mosaic of memories that will be a lasting treasure for generations to come. As the decade that became known as the Roaring Twenties dawned in America, things were looking bright as the end of WWI left us recognized as a world leader. This was a time of great innovation and change that fueled countless advancements in both the business and industrial sectors. Nestled within this time that was rich in jazz music, entertaining shows on Broadway, and ballroom dancing was the year 1920 that boasted of great joy for one bustling family from Grand Rapids, Michigan, as they were overjoyed to welcome a new baby into their hearts and home. Baby Helen was born on December 11th of that year as the youngest of five children born to her parents, Michael and Mary (Molnar) Kovats. She was raised in the family home alongside her older siblings, Betty, Bill, Mary and Mike. Tragedy struck as a young girl with the unexpected death of her father due to pneumonia when she was just three years old. Understandably so, raising five children on her own was not the easiest of tasks for Helens mother. A few years later Helen moved with her family to Muskegon Heights after the home that Helens brother, Mike, built was complete. She attended local schools there including Muskegon Heights High School. Helen also sang on the radio with some girlfriends. She went on to graduate from high school in 1938. As WWII enveloped our nation, Helen worked at a local factory to support the war effort alongside her mother and two sisters. During this time she became acquainted with a young Army soldier from California named Herbert Parritt, and the couple frequently corresponded through letters. They met when he came to Muskegon, but Helen wast impressed with him. True love won in the end, however, as Herbert was persistent in his pursuit and eventually stole Helens heart. With a desire to build a life together, the couple was united in marriage on November 25, 1948. The newlyweds initially lived with Helens mother in the house they would call home throughout the rest of their married life. Together they were blessed with two sons, David and Edward, and they were the light of Helens life. Herbert worked at Consumers Power while Helen was a busy homemaker. Life in the Parritt family was always so much fun. There were memorable times at Pere Marquette, Mona Lake, Deer Park, and leisurely Sunday afternoon drives. Precious moments were also shared on trips a bit father from home including trips to Canada, Pennsylvania, and California. Christmas was always a special time in Helens home as she went over and above to make it something to remember. Although she certainly spent her time in the kitchen, she truly enjoyed frozen dinners. Throughout her life Helens faith played a vital role. Together with her husband she was a member of Oakwood Baptist and Trinity Baptist. After the death of her husband Helen became a member of Faith Baptist. Helens focus was always on her family first and foremost, but she found so many things to be fulfilling. Throughout the years she was involved with the P.T.A., Cub Scouts, Marine Corps Auxiliary, Toys for Tots and The Goodwill. In 1965 she began bowling, spending many years bowling for the Muskegon Heights Eagles. A lifelong crafter, Helen loved making creations of all kinds, many of which she sold. In 1971 she and Herbert began camping all over the United States in addition to many summers spent camping at Pioneer County Park. Family trips to Kings Island and Cedar Point were also a highlight in Helens life. Shopping with her husband was another favorite activity, and she was also an avid gardener and Bingo player. Life was not without times of trial for Helen, yet she was a resilient woman with a quiet strength and an unwavering faith. Since she was very close with her mother throughout her life, Helen was deeply saddened with her death in 1991. Hard times were again in store for her when her beloved Herbert died in 2002, but it was the love of her family that sustained her during this most difficult time. Helen was delighted to be a grandmother and deeply enjoyed the time she spent with her seven grandchildren. In 2005 Helen sold the family home and moved to Nelson Place Apartments in Muskegon. She made several new friends there and adapted to her new way of life. Helen also looked forward to going out to eat with family and friends. By 2008 Helens health had declined to the point that she needed more care so she moved in with her son, David, and his wife, Cora. In 2009 she moved to Northcrest Living Center. As her struggle with dementia and a broken hip grew more serious she moved to the Hillcrest nursing Home.. With a life that spanned times of war and times of peace, times of plenty and times of want, Helen Parritt fully embraced the days she was given. She was smart and mindful of those around her with a warm demeanor that put others at ease. Helens love for her family was unmatched, and her legacy of compassion, humility, and steadfast faith will be carried on by those who follow her. Helen Parritt died on Wednesday, December 21, 2011 with her son David at her side. Helens family includes her sons, Edward (Donita) Parritt of Wyandotte and David (Cora) Parritt of Muskegon; 7 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren & 17 great-great-grandchildren. Helen was preceded in death by her husband, Herbert; grandchild, Bobby Stafford; 2 brothers & 2 sisters. Services will be held on Tuesday, December 27, 2011, 11:00 a.m. and visitation 1 hour prior to the service at Faith Baptist Church with Rev. James Swieringa officiating. Interment at Mona View Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to Faith Baptist Church Building Fund. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com where you can leave a favorite memory or sign the online guestbook.