Helen V. McCabe passed away peacefully with her family at her side on September 30, 2022, in West Bloomfield, Michigan, at the age of 93.

Helen Vivian Martin was born to Jalmer Martin and Lempi (Wesander) Martin in Mass City, Michigan on May 15, 1929. She was raised there with her siblings Ernie, Ray, Viola, Francis, Andrew and Shirley. She was very proud of her “Yooper” upbringing and Finnish Heritage. 

Helen’s adventurous spirit brought her from Mass City, MI to Detroit, MI after graduating from Greenland Township High School in 1947. She embarked on a journey which began with her boarding a ferry between the Upper and Lower Peninsula of Michigan. She arrived by bus in Detroit and began living at the YWCA, working for Burroughs as a quality control associate. While there, Helen was introduced to her husband (the man of her dreams) by her future sister-in-law, Winnie. She and James married on March 29, 1952, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Detroit, MI. 

Helen devoted her life to her family and friends. Being a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother were the great joys of Helen’s life. She made sure everyone left her house with a full stomach and heart. Helen’s loving nature built the foundation for a close-knit family that will continue to spend many days together. Her kindness and generosity will be remembered by all who knew and loved her. 

Helen is preceded in death by her husband, James Patrick McCabe Sr., with whom she raised four adoring children in Madison Heights. The couple retired in Imlay City. Helen resided in West Bloomfield for many years prior to her passing. Left to cherish her memory are daughters: Deborah McCabe of West Bloomfield, MI; Patty (Jack) Starzec of Milan, MI; Dian (Mark) Slavens of Canton, MI; and son: James (Patti) McCabe Jr. of Imlay City, MI. Helen had 9 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.

A Memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 11, 2022, with visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. at McCabe Funeral Home, 31950 W. 12 Mile Rd., Farmington Hills, MI 48334. Pastor Alan Casillas will officiate. Helen will be laid to rest with her husband at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, MI.

In Lieu of flowers, friends wishing to honor Helen are invited to donate to Pope Francis Center, 438 Saint Antoine St., Detroit, MI 48226.