Helen Geleynse Likkel Barrent

Helen lived 10 days after celebrating her 90th birthday. She was the devoted wife of Earl, the beloved Mother of Ilene (Don) Schneider, Eldon (Helen) Likkel, Douglas (Acqunetta) Likkel, the Step-Mother of Gary Barrent and a loving Grandmother and Great-Grandmother. After a private burial, her Memorial Service will be Saturday, August 8, 2015, 1 PM at Horan & McConaty Family Chapel, 9998 Grant Street, Thornton, Colo. Memorial Contributions may be made in Helen's honor to: Hearts For the World International PO Box 140728 Edgewater, CO 80214 www.heartsfortheworld.org Born July 13, 1925, in Lynden, Washington, Helen lived much of her adult life in Denver, CO, however, always kept her hometown close to her heart. With yearly trips to Lynden, she maintained very close ties with her family there and even today, her loving children, grandchildren and great-children know much about her Dutch heritage and her devotion to family. She was baptized and a member of the Christian Reformed Church for many years. After moving to Denver, she became ""a single Mom"" before the term was created. With strength and resilience, she made admirable adjustments, and her selfless, lifelong commitment was to provide for her children and raise Ilene, Eldon, and Douglas to be Godly, responsible, hard-working adults. For many years, her sole purpose was her work and supporting her children in all their endeavors. After leaving her position as a cook at South High School, a job chosen to mirror school hours and vacations to be with her children, she accepted a position with the Government Printing Office (GPO) at the Federal Center in Denver. She humbly, but with satisfaction, told that, out of her group of applicants, she received the second highest score on the Civil Service Exam. It was at GPO she met Earl Barrent, who now, at 94 years old, grieves her passing after 39 years of marriage. After retirement from GPO, Helen and Earl enjoyed many years of square dancing, bowling, traveling, a second home in Cripple Creek, Colorado, and treasured time with children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Their home was filled with pictures of adored family and she could recall birthdays, marriages, and anniversaries of all family members, often clarifying or correcting any date confusion. A travel highlight was a trip to Holland which enabled her to add to her beautiful collection of Delft pottery and visit her Mother's birthplace. She was a fierce competitor in board games, an avid sports fan, and a creative cook. With a passion for Christian music, Helen was a faithful member of the Holiday Hills Community Church Choir for many years. Although a true alto, Helen could be asked to sing soprano, tenor or bass at a moments notice. Helen and Earl lived completely independently until February 28, 2015. Helen passed away Friday, July 24, 2015, under the loving care of Tru Care Hospice and Bayada Home Health Nurses. It is with hearts full of gratitude that her family remembers Helen's life, her love of the Lord and her final reward in the arms of her Heavenly Father who she faithfully served. Please share your memories of Helen and condolences with her family by signing the Guestbook below.