In Loving Memory of

Helen Marie VanGorder-Ragusa

Age 65 ' October 9, 2026

With heavy hearts and a lifetime of cherished memories, we announce the passing of Helen Marie VanGorder-Ragusa, age 65, who passed away on October 9, 2026.

Helen was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend who lived life with an adventurous spirit, a caring heart, and a personality that could never be forgotten.

For over 40 years, Helen dedicated her life to nursing, caring for others with compassion, strength, and dedication. Nursing was more than just a career; it was a reflection of her caring nature and the countless lives she touched along the way.

Outside of nursing, Helen was truly one of a kind. She was adventurous, spontaneous, hilariously clumsy, and always good for a laugh. There was never a dull moment when Helen was around. Whether she was making everyone laugh, finding herself in another one of her unforgettable clumsy moments, or setting off on her next adventure, she had a way of turning ordinary days into lasting memories.

Helen was a Harley babe through and through. She loved her Harley-Davidson and the freedom, excitement, and adventure that came with it. Her love for her Harley was just another reflection of her free spirit and her passion for living life on her own terms. She had a wild side, a fun-loving heart, and a personality that was impossible to forget.

Helen also loved the simple pleasures in life: spending time outdoors, soaking up the sunshine, relaxing in her pool, and enjoying a cigarette. She loved traveling, especially to the ocean, where she could enjoy the sunshine, the waves, and the peacefulness of the water. Whether she was enjoying a beautiful summer day, spending time with family, or dreaming up her next adventure, Helen knew how to make the most of life's moments.

She was unapologetically herself, a little clumsy, a whole lot of fun, and full of stories that will continue to bring laughter and smiles for years to come.

Above all, Helen's greatest treasures were her family. She was a loving mother to her three children and a proud grandmother to her three grandchildren. The love she shared with them, the memories they made, and the laughter they enjoyed will forever remain in their hearts.

Helen is survived by her loving children, Garrett Ragusa, Tia Ragusa, and Bryan Ragusa; and her cherished grandchildren, Jaylyn Ragusa, Opal Todzia, and Cleo Todzia.

She is also survived by her siblings, Harry (Elva) VanGorder, Margie (Kevin) Mattison, Christopher (Mary Beth) VanGorder, Joseph VanGorder, Susan Brannon, and James (Grace Ann) VanGorder, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Rose VanGorder, and her siblings, Ray (Sue) VanGorder, Norma (Randy) Personius, Paul VanGorder, and Edward VanGorder.

Helen's life was filled with laughter, adventure, love, and unforgettable moments. She will be remembered for her strength, her sense of humor, her clumsy mishaps, her love for her Harley, and her ability to make life a little more exciting for everyone around her.

There will be no traditional funeral service. Instead, Helen's life will be celebrated at the ocean, a place that reflects her love for sunshine, freedom, adventure, and the outdoors. Details of her celebration of life will be shared with family and friends at a later date.

Although our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing that Helen lived life in her own unforgettable way. She leaves behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, memories, and love that will never fade.

So when you hear the rumble of a Harley, feel the warmth of the sunshine, hear the waves crashing against the shore, or find yourself laughing at life's unexpected moments, think of Helen.

Because somewhere, somehow, our Harley babe is still chasing the sunshine, finding her next adventure, and probably making someone laugh along the way.

Ride free, Mom. May the roads be endless, the sun always shine, and the ocean forever be waiting for you.

Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever our Angel.