"Helga was, without a doubt, one of the kindest, most generous, most positive and supportive people you could possibly meet. A beautiful person inside and out, she was always giving -- always thinking about someone else. She made this world a better place wherever she went, whether it was through her volunteering, her art, or by just being herself."

Helga spent the morning of January 14, much as she had for the past several years, volunteering her time to read aloud on a Saturday morning to a bright-eyed group of fourth graders.

But on her way home after gathering with the Reading to Kids volunteers for lunch, Helga died tragically in a car accident.

It is impossible to capture with words the essence of her megawatt smile, self-deprecating humor, infectious sense of mischief and fun, and honest and forthright way of communicating. In these ways and others, her presence will be sorely missed.

By so generously sharing her deep love for her fellow person, and by placing among her priorities an unwavering dedication to the spirit of volunteerism, Helga has left us with a shining legacy that will continue to inspire us all to enrich the lives of those less fortunate.

Although Reading to Kids was only one part of a life so rich with love, joy, and friendship, we hope that the remembrances of her many friends and colleagues here will help paint a more complete picture of one of the finest people to grace our humble community.

Helga . . . we will love you and forever cherish your memory. Rest in peace, dear friend.