October 24, 1935 - July 23, 2022
Beverly “Bev” Ann (Smith) Helfrich, age 86, of Cheboygan, Michigan, died at Medilodge in Cheboygan on July 23, 2022. She was born on October 24, 1935, in Silver Lake, Indiana, to Clinton E. and Dora J. (Harter) Smith.
Bev grew up in Indiana but resided in Ozark, Michigan for most of her life before moving to Cheboygan. She attended Lake Superior State University to further her business skills. Bev married Richard Helfrich Sr., on June 6, 1953, and raised two children, Ricy and Richard. She was overjoyed when she became a grandmother and later great grandmother.
Bev was a lifetime member of the DAV.
Bev loved reading romance and mystery novels, traveling, and watching golf—especially if Tiger Woods was playing. She also enjoyed gardening and canning her own food. She was a wonderful cook and liked making meals for her family to enjoy. She was witty and a spitfire and was always good company; Bev made many wonderful memories over the years with her good friends and family.
Bev is survived by her daughter, Ricy Ball; son, Richard (Anne) Helfrich Jr.; grandchildren, Cynthia (Rob) Ball, Cora Ball, Jessie (Jason) Helfrich-LaLonde, and CJ Helfrich; great grandchildren, Robert (Marissa) Ball, Makayla Ball, Kaylee and Chase Ball; brother-in-law, Al (Linda) Surfus of Conyers, Georgia; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
Bev is preceded in death by her husband, Richard Helfrich Sr.; parents, Clinton and Dora Smith; brothers, Dan and Ted Smith; and sister, Sharon Hoffman.
There will be a graveside service at Trout Lake Lakeview Cemetery on August 13, 2022, at 11:00 A.M.
Galer Funeral Homes & Cremation in Pickford, Michigan, is serving the family. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.galerfuneralhomes.com.
