MILLINOCKET – Grace (Poirer) Helstrom, 91, passed away Monday, Dec. 16, 2013, at her new home in Millinocket. She was born June 7, 1922, at Grand Anse, New Brunswick, the daughter of Herbert and Corinne Poirer.
Grace graduated from Stearns High School in 1940 and married Donald E. Helstrom the following year. They spent 65 years together, raising two boys and spending lots of time at the camps – starting with the Island on North Twin to the foot of Millinocket Lake and then the Salmon Pool Camps on the Aroostook River. She enjoyed knitting, crocheting, travel, and the New England Patriots. After retirement, Don and Grace visited all of the continental states and Canadian provinces with a special affection for the maritime provinces.
Grace is survived by her son, Don Helstrom Jr. and his wife, Gail, of Woodville; a sister, Lila Chapman of New Jersey; grandchildren, Laura Manzo, Ursula Bernier, Mary Beth Helstrom, and Derek Helstrom; five great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was predeceased by her parents, husband Donald; son, Kenneth; sister, Arleta; and brother, Herbie.
The family would like to thank Dr. Herbert and Kim plus the staff and residents of Stearns Assisted Living for their patience and compassion in the final months of Grace’s journey.
A graveside service will be held in the spring at Millinocket Cemetery. Arrangements are by Lamson Funeral Home, Millinocket. Messages of condolence may be expressed at www.lamsonfh.com.
Grace (Poirer) Helstrom
