Helen Derechin’s Obituary & Cause Of Death, Who Was Helen Derechin? What Happened to Helen Derechin?

Early Life and Adoption

News: Helen Meilin Derechin entered the world in Changzhou, China, in May 1996. A significant juncture unfolded in her life when, in June 1997, she was adopted. This marked a transformative moment as she embraced her forever family and commenced a new chapter in her life’s journey with them.

Youth and Education

In her youth, Helen flourished in Minneapolis, evolving into an exceptional individual. Supported by both the Jewish and Chinese communities, she demonstrated academic excellence at Augsburg University. The groundwork for her success was established during her time at St. Paul Academy.

Passion for Children and Medical Field

Helen harbored aspirations in the field of medical technology, yet her ultimate calling was to work with children in the medical realm. Fueled by a deep-seated passion for caring and supporting others, she sought to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young ones within the healthcare domain.

Joy in Life’s Activities

Beyond her professional endeavors, Helen discovered joy in a myriad of activities including singing, baking, and hiking. A special bond was formed with her canine companion, Ty. Helen’s life was rich with rewarding experiences, from cultivating meaningful relationships to savoring spicy cuisine and relishing the warmth of the sun. She embarked on adventures to destinations like Costa Rica, found solace in home decorating, and had favorite dining spots at Kim’s and Raku restaurants.

Avid Nerd and Advocate

Helen embraced her identity as a proud “nerd,” openly sharing her love for musicals and science with anyone willing to listen. Her commitment extended beyond personal interests, as she dedicated herself to advocating for adoptee issues and social justice causes. Through her passion and dedication, Helen demonstrated a profound commitment to making a positive impact on the world.

Resilience and Empathy

Resilience and empathy stood out as defining qualities in Helen’s character. Confronting life’s challenges with strength, she exhibited a profound commitment to both her mental and physical well-being. Her relationship with Leora played a pivotal role in shaping her empathetic nature, contributing to the depth of her understanding and compassion.

Red Thread Charities and Artistic Abilities

Helen’s involvement with Red Thread Charities led her to Hangzhou, China, where she engaged with orphans and strengthened her dedication to caring for children. Additionally, she showcased her artistic talents in musical theater productions at various venues, leaving a lasting impact, including performances with CAAM-CDT. Her journey reflected a multifaceted commitment to both philanthropy and the arts.

Love for Adventure and Nature

Adventure and exploration were integral to Helen’s life. Infused with a spirit of adventure, she delved into the wilderness of Wyoming and Montana, immersing herself in the natural beauty of these landscapes. Her adventurous pursuits extended to a six-week Arctic Circle expedition with Camp Widjiwagan, contributing to her profound love for nature and a life rich in exploration. These experiences added depth and complexity to the tapestry of her life.

Family and Legacy

Helen’s journey is marked by the lasting impact of her grandfathers, William Derechin and George Rothweiler, who preceded her in death. Their memories serve as enduring sources of inspiration and guidance for Helen’s family. She is survived by her parents, Beatrice Rothweiler and Neil Derechin, her sister Leora Derechin, her second parents Aunt Laurie Derechin and Uncle Josep Maria Bonsoms Delmar, her grandmothers Haddie Derechin and Therese Rothweiler, along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. The 26 years that Helen shared with them will be forever cherished, and her absence will be deeply felt by her family.

Appreciation and Donations

Helen’s family extends their deepest appreciation and gratitude to all the educators, mentors, and caregivers who played significant roles in shaping her life journey.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Helen’s name to organizations that held special significance for her, including the Children’s Theater Company in Minneapolis, Camp Widjiwagan, or CAAM-CDT. These contributions serve as a meaningful way to remember Helen and honor her enduring memory.

Memorial Services

A “SHIVA” service is scheduled for Thursday evening, February 1st, at 7 PM at 2221 Youngman Avenue in St. Paul. Additionally, a Memorial Service and Celebration of Life is planned for Thursday, February 15th, from 1-3 PM at Lakewood Cemetery Chapel. Those wishing to attend are encouraged to check the Hodroff-Epstein website for the latest updates on event details, including livestream options.

Legacy and Remembering Helen

Helen Derechin leaves behind an extraordinary legacy characterized by love, learning, and a profound commitment to service. Her memory stands as a priceless blessing, warmly cherished by all those fortunate enough to have known her.

FAQs

Q: What activities brought joy to Helen?

A: Helen found joy in activities such as singing, baking, and hiking. She shared a special bond with her dog named Ty.

Q: In what causes did Helen advocate for social justice?

A: Helen dedicated herself to advocating for adoptee issues and various social justice matters.

Q: How can I honor and remember Helen?

A: To honor Helen’s memory, donations can be made in her name to organizations close to her heart, including the Children’s Theater Company in Minneapolis, Camp Widjiwagan, or CAAM-CDT.