Helen Grace Mastaw

Helen Grace Mastaw, 83, passed away on July 18, 2023. She was born on November 25, 1939, in Sault St. Marie, Michigan, daughter of LaJoy and Elizabeth “Betty” (Bruce) Barber.

Helen was hospitalized with Polio at age 12. Despite that, she went on to lead a meaningful life. She graduated from Loretto High School in 1957, then went on to graduate from Northern Michigan University in 1961 with a bachelor’s degree in education. Helen was a 1^st and 3^rd grade teacher for 30 years in the Michigan public school system and was a member of the Teacher Sorority.

On August 18, 1962, Helen married the love of her life Anthony Mastaw and they shared 61 loving and devoted years together. Helen was a devout Catholic. She was a member of St. Bernard parish and served with the Crafty Ladies, Choir, and the Quilt group. Helen was a member of the Mary Wood Chorus for many years. She also volunteered at Father Carr’s Place 2B in Oshkosh at their medical clinic, shelter, and food pantry. Helen will always be remembered for having a good sense of humor, being kind, gentle, and humble, and always believing the best in people.  

She is survived by her husband; her children Kevin (Tokuko) Mastaw, Mike (Kathi) Mastaw, Michelle (Mike) Vanden Boogart; siblings Judy (Barber) Mastaw, Phil (Pam) Barber, Bill Barber; grandchildren Tanner and Tylan Mastaw, Matthew Vanden Boogart, Alyssa (Jeffrey) Oseguera, Lance (Molly) Vanden Boogart, Levi (Joyel) Vanden Boogart, Luke Vanden Boogart; and 3 great grandchildren.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents and brother Bob Bruce.

The funeral liturgy will be at 11am on Saturday, July 22, 2023, at St. Bernard Church, 1617 W Pine St. Appleton WI, 54914 with Fr. Paul Demuth and Fr. Dave Duffeck from Father Carr’s Place 2B concelebrating. Visitation will be on Friday July 21, 2023 from 5:30pm to 7:30pm at the church and again on Saturday at the church from 10am until the time of the mass. Interment will be at St. Mary Cemetery in Appleton.

The family would like to thank Dr. Rachell Ayers with ThedaCare Regional Medical Center in Appleton for her exceptional care, attention, and compassion.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to St. Jude Childrens Hospital are appreciated.