PERHAM – Viola Ruth Helstrom, 85, passed away peacefully Sunday, July 31, 2011, with her family by her side, in Caribou. She was born Nov. 20, 1925, in Perham, the daughter of Hampton and Sarah (Walker) McBreairty.
Viola married Gordon Helstrom in 1942 and the two farmed together and were happily wed for 54 years before Gordon’s passing in 2000. Viola’s work ethic and dedication could never have gone unnoticed. She was employed for many years at Tater State, Washburn, and Potato Service, Presque Isle. After retiring she and Gordon found joy in building pine crafts together and selling their creations at local craft fairs. Viola was a lifelong member of Perham Baptist Church, where she was loved by young and old alike. Her faith was a cornerstone in her personality and her belief continued to shine through the last days of her life. For more than 50 years, she was the life of the party at Perham Friendship Club gatherings and always looked forward to sharing her homemade treats, crafts and stories with her good friends. Many who knew Viola will remember her one-of-a-kind collection of frogs. Throughout the years many special frogs were given to her from friends and family, and she truly cherished them all. From her grandchildren who loved her as “Grammy Froggy” to anyone else who had the pleasure of enjoying her famous “twists,” a meal with Viola was always a feast. At the center of the table was always a vase of freshly cut flowers from Viola’s own treasured gardens. Viola was happy making braided rugs and embroidering pillowcases for family and friends. She also took great pride in putting together special photo albums and was thoughtful with her hand-written letters. Above all, Viola loved to talk and laugh. If she thought about it, she said it. For all who knew Viola, she was appreciated for her gift of gab and clever wit.
She is survived by her son, Dwight Helstrom and his companion, Sue Moreau, of Mapleton; son, Sterling Helstrom and his wife, Ellen, of Presque Isle; four grandchildren, Dwight Helstrom Jr. and his wife, Stephanie, of Hudson, Vicki Helstrom of Williamsburg, New Brunswick, Christopher Helstrom and his wife, Caitlin, of Cape Elizabeth and Lisa Helstrom of Somerville, Mass.; great-grandchildren, Kasey, Sara, Carl and Anna; and great-great-grandchild, Gage; her sister, Barbara Sperry of Houlton; her brother, Ronald McBrearity of Pennsylvania; and by several special nieces and nephews, including Noreen, Linda, Birdena, Bridget and Patsy. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Gordon; her brothers, James, Hampton, Louie and Roger McBreairty; and her sisters, Annie Martin and Phyllis Pelletier.
Friends and family may call 6-9 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 2, at Lancaster Morgan Funeral Home, 11 Clover St., Caribou. A funeral service will be held 1 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 3, at Perham Baptist Church with the Rev. Dave Goupille officiating. Interment will be after the funeral at Fairview Cemetery, Perham. Donations in Viola’s memory may be made to Perham Baptist Church, 681 Perham Road, Perham, ME 04766. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at
www.lancastermorgan.com.