Helen Dykeman

Rhinebeck – Helen B. Dykeman, 87, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2024, at Northern Dutchess Hospital, surrounded by her loving family.

In addition to her husband of 67 years, Peter, Helen is survived by sons Peter (Nicole), Matthew (Laurie), and Andrew (Suzanne); grandchildren Nathan (Julie), Andrea (Rohit) and Jake; four great-grandchildren; brothers-in-law Richard Dykeman and Raymond Wagus; and several nieces and nephews. Helen is predeceased by her beloved grandson, Peter Jr.

Born in Warrensburg, NY on January 15, 1937, Helen was the daughter of the late Charles and Edna (Skym) Brown. In the family of seven children, she was the second youngest and the last survivor of three sisters and four brothers.

After graduating from Warrensburg High School, Helen attended Albany Business College where she met Peter Dykeman, who was a student at SUNY Albany living next to her dormitory. Shortly after graduation, Helen worked for the New York State Police in the state capital.

Helen and Peter became engaged and married on June 30, 1957. They moved to Pine Bush, NY, where Peter began teaching for Pine Bush Central School District. In the coming years, they lived in Syracuse, Hyde Park, Ithaca and Rhinebeck, and welcomed three sons between 1958 and 1965.

Helen was active for many years in St. Paul’s Lutheran Church of Wurtemburg, teaching Sunday school, singing in the choir and participating on various committees. She loved to sing and taught guitar to many local youths. Helen loved the outdoors and during summers the family took camping trips throughout the country. She was an avid reader and enjoyed playing word games, watching wildlife, and keeping score at Peter’s softball games. Helen was devoted to family and friends, gave great hugs, and made everyone she met feel special.

Later, she became an activities staff member at the Baptist Home in Rhinebeck, where she loved to play the guitar and sing with the residents, as well as bring things from nature to them.

Calling hours will be held at the Dapson-Chestney Funeral Home, 51 West Market Street, Rhinebeck, on Wednesday, September 18, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

A funeral service will be held at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church of Wurtemburg, 371 Wurtemburg Road, Rhinebeck, on Saturday, September 21, at 11 a.m., with burial to follow in the Wurtemburg Cemetery.

All are welcome to join the family for a light lunch in the church immediately after the service.

Memorial donations in honor of Helen may be made to the charity of your choice.

To send an online condolence, please visit www.dapsonchestney.com

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