Helen Aleena Lehtikangas

Helen Aleena Lehtikangas, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and
embodiment of Finnish sisu, passed away peacefully on the evening of
March 18, 2024, surrounded by loved ones at her daughter's home in Rock,
Michigan. She was 97 years old.

Born on April 23, 1926, in Rock, Michigan, Helen was born to John and
Hilda Leppanen. She spent a life filled with love, hard work, and
dedication to her family. In 1960, she married Leonard Lehtikangas, and
together they raised their four children on their dairy farm in Rock.
Helen was a busy and dedicated homemaker, finding joy in creating a warm
and loving home for her family. Her love extended beyond the house, as
she nurtured a passion for gardening and the art of canning. She was
especially known for baking delicious Finnish treats, bringing a taste
of Finnish heritage to her family gatherings.

Beyond the farm, Helen and Leonard instilled a love of adventure in
their children, embarking on many memorable summer road trips. Many
summer Sundays were spent taking drives to visit relatives and exploring
the beauty of the Upper Peninsula, with highlights including a trip
around Lake Superior and a journey to Mount Rushmore and the Badlands.

Helen's spirit of adventure continued well into her later years. She
found joy in spending time knitting and crocheting, creating warm winter
socks and mittens that were prized possessions of many who received
them. Even in her later years, Helen's Finnish sisu shone brightly. A
fiercely independent woman, she continued to drive herself to the Senior
Citizens Center several days a week into her early 90s, volunteering her
time for 30 years and taking great pride in the help she could lend.
There, she also cultivated a wonderful circle of friends who became her
extended family, sharing lively conversation, enjoying senior center
dances and bingo. Her spirit of giving and her dedication to her senior
community will continue to inspire all who knew her. She was a true
embodiment of Finnish sisu – strong, determined, and forever cherished.
Lepää rauhassa, äiti.

Helen is survived by her four children, Tim (Kathy) Lehtikangas, Oshkosh
WI; Ron Lehtikangas, Rock MI; Dale Lehtikangas, Gladstone MI; Sandra
(James) McPherson, Rock MI, all living testaments to her love and
guidance. She also leaves behind cherished grandchildren Tony McPherson,
Karley Lehtikangas, Ryan Lehtikangas, Benjamin Lehtikangas, Samuel
Lehtikangas, Timothy Lehtikangas, Stashia Wery, Jeremy Frappier, and
Ryan Frappier. And several great-grandchildren.

Helen was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Leonard Lehtikangas;
her parents, John and Hilda Leppanen; and her siblings, brothers George
and John, and sisters Ellen, Irene, and Gertrude.

Visitation will be on Saturday March 23 from 12 to 1:30pm at Anderson
Funeral Home, 903 Wisconsin Ave., Gladstone MI. The funeral service will
follow with Pastor Jack Busche officiating. Burial will take place in the Rock Cemetery. 

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