Helen Volkerding 

Dec 10, 1920 - February 9, 2026

Helen, age 105, of Rio Rancho, New Mexico, was born on December 10, 1920, and passed away on February 9, 2026. 

Helen was the youngest of four Milligan sisters, raised on an Olathe, Kansas farm where her father, George, worked the farm with a team of horses. Her mother, Grace, was an inspiration who lived her adult life in a wheelchair, bound by arthritis. Helen was the last sister to leave the farm as she became the caretaker for her parents. Helen married Bernie Volkerding, who brought a calmness to her life. They moved to Farmington, New Mexico, where they raised two sons, Bruce and Dennis. She entertained many throughout her life with her ability to play piano by ear and sang with a smile in her voice. An avid Scrabble player with a fantastic memory, she played Scrabble with the letters life gave her and made words of love and joy.

On her life’s journey, she found much joy in watching birds change with the seasons. While she lived beyond her expectations and desire, her magnetic laugh was a pleasure for all who knew her, a joy to encounter and remember. Her mother’s name, Grace, became a way of life for her, as she was gracious to all who knew and loved her.