She was born on June 28, 1934 to Archibald and Isabella Newlands in Carstairs Junction, Scotland. When she was 18, she came to the United States as an au pair and, through the host family, met her husband, William D. Diedtrich. Helen and Bill married in 1954 and had three children – William, Carol, and Joan. She took considerable pride in her children and their successes and took immense joy in their happiness. Helen loved her children's spouses, Mary, Tom, and Marty as if they were her own children and had a special relationship with each of them.
Helen was a constant presence in the lives of her grandchildren, William Jr. and his wife Kimberly, Justine and her husband Clark, Olivia, and Jillian. She was present for every milestone in their lives and was always a quiet, confident role model. Her preeminent title was "GG" (Great Grandmother) to Avery, Colin, Connor, and James.
Helen embraced the role of the family matriarch and maintained close relationships with her nephew Mark and niece Caroline of the United Kingdom. She held a special place in her heart for her niece Linda, who was like a sister and a best friend.
Helen cherished the community of Park Ridge and the lifelong friends she made over her 68 years in town. Among the revered memories and friends are the "Dirty Dozen," the neighbors, the Fire Department crowd, the Tuesday Night Sewing Club, and the Park Ridge Family that extended to "the Farm" in Franklin, NY. It is impossible not to remember Helen gracefully enjoying a Manhattan or glass of red wine while sitting at “the Farm”, in her backyard, or at the beach, surrounded by her family and friends.
Helen was predeceased by her husband Bill, brother Archie, sister-in-law Ann, and friend John. She shared some amazing adventures with all of them.
The family will receive guests at Becker Funeral Home, Westwood, NJ on Wednesday, June 28th from 4:00 pm to 8:00 p.m. A graveside service will take place on Thursday, June 29th at 11:00 am at Westwood Cemetery, Westwood, NJ. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Tri-Boro Ambulance Corp or the Park Ridge Fire Department.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.17