Obituary: Helen Van Akkeren

Feb. 26, 1919 – Aug. 16, 2019 

Helen G. Van Akkeren, 100, of Sturgeon Bay died at Pine Crest Village. She was born in Sheboygan to John and Amanda DeMaster. On June 22, 1940, she married Harley Van Akkeren in Sheboygan. He died on Feb. 12, 2005. 

For many years, Helen and Harley directed numerous YMCA camps throughout the country. In 1984, they retired to Door County to be near their family.

She was a member of the Sturgeon Bay United Methodist Church, P.E.O. and a past member of the Peninsula Chamber Singers.

Survivors include two daughters, Linda Erickson, Sturgeon Bay, Nancy (Don) Ziegelbauer, Sturgeon Bay; two granddaughters and three great-grandchildren, Anne (Ben) Bamberg and their sons, Max and Elliot, Amy (Tyler Hess) Ziegelbauer, and their daughter, Charlotte, all of Madison.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; a brother, John (Pat) DeMaster; and a sister, Doris (Harold) Hoopman.

A memorial service will be conducted at a later date. Forbes Funeral Home and Cremations is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at forbesfuneralhome.com.