01/09/2026
Helen E. Rifenburgh
JOHNSONVILLE -
Helen E. (Eriksen) Rifenburgh, 82, of Johnsonville, New York, passed away on January 7, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family at Samaritan Hospital in Troy, New York.
Born on July 2, 1943, in Troy, New York, Helen was the daughter of the late John Eriksen and Mary (Hughes) Eriksen. One of eight children, Helen grew up in a large, lively family and was later blessed to be survived by her siblings Tina, Tammy, and Robin, whom she loved dearly.
At just 16 years old, Helen met the love of her life, Harry A. Rifenburgh. After knowing each other for only two weeks, they married—a brave, young choice that grew into a 62-year marriage filled with devotion, laughter, and weathering life’s storms together. Harry predeceased her in 2021, and there is comfort in imagining their reunion now.
Together, Helen and Harry raised five children, who were the center of her world: the late John I. Rifenburgh (Patty), Gordon I. Rifenburgh (Trish), Matthew E. Rifenburgh (Christine), Kimberly H. Blais (Woody), and Stacie E. Rifenburgh (Anthony).
Helen was “Mom” to many, not only in name but in the way she showed up—with food, rides, concern, and the kind of stubborn love that never let you forget you were hers.
She was a proud grandmother to fourteen grandchildren—Lynn, Alisha, John, Christopher, Nick, Kacie, Jessica, Shaela, Meghan, Cameron, Jayden, Alicia, Eric, and Dakota—and a doting great-grandmother to twenty-two great-grandchildren. Each of them held a special place in her heart, and she delighted in watching their lives unfold.
For many years, Helen’s greatest work was as a homemaker and caregiver. She poured her energy into raising her children and later helping to raise her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her home was a gathering place—especially on holidays—where she loved cooking, hosting, and having everyone under one roof. If there was a full table, laughter in the air, and a pot on the stove, Helen was in her element.
Helen was a proud Marine’s wife and held that identity close to her heart throughout her life. She was an active member and volunteer with the V.F.W. Post 1938 Ladies Auxiliary, and she gave generously to causes that mattered deeply to her, including the Marine Toys for Tots program and the Wounded Warrior Project. Her patriotism and support for veterans were not just beliefs, but lived actions. She had many small joys and quirks that her family will remember with smiles: She was an avid coin collector, always on the lookout for something unique or rare. She loved going for rides, taking in the world outside the window while listening to old country music. She believed strongly in returning everyone’s empty bottles for recycling—a small ritual of responsibility and care for the world around her. She was persistent with phone calls, and her family knew that when Helen called, you’d likely end up laughing before you hung up.
Those who knew Helen will remember her as kind, generous, stubborn, funny, and sometimes delightfully demanding. She was the one who checked in, the one who worried, the one who reminded you to be careful—and the one who could make you laugh even on a hard day. She loved fiercely and showed it in a thousand everyday ways. Helen was deeply loved and will be missed more than words can say.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, January 15, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., with a service beginning at 5:00 p.m., followed by light refreshments. Services will be held at Hoosic Valley Community Church, 2024 NY-40, Schaghticoke, NY 12154.
In lieu of flowers, and in honor of Helen’s generous spirit and pride as a Marine’s wife, contributions may be made to Marine Toys for Tots or the Wounded Warrior Project.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com
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