Deters' Dynamics: In Remembrance of Uncle Joe

n Memorium -- Do you remember trying to come up with a name for your baby? I do. We would say what about _____? Oh no that reminds me of someone who wasn't that nice. What about _________? No I don't really like that name. What about Joe? Immediately we both agreed that our first son's name would be Joe - because of this man's (Joe Helmink's) influence on both of our lives.

I first met Joe and Barb when Dave and I were still dating. The entire Helmink/Deters family are Catholic and we were not. I was full of trepidation wondering if anyone would even like me. Barb and Joe came right up to me and started asking me all about myself and checking to see how serious Dave and I were. Barb went on to tell me of the wonderful relationship between Joe and Dave. Dave had told me this too. They put my heart at ease and made me feel welcome and comfortable right away. Dave loved working with Joe and he remembers Joe babysitting him too.

From the first moment I met them, I knew they were both very special. I am going to miss Joe Helmink so much, but I am so very thankful he was in my life. I am a better person for knowing him. He always, always, always made time for us. He'd come in and have coffee with us when we visited if he had time or we would go out with him while he did chores. Why heck I even e-mailed him in December to let him know we were coming and ask if we could stop by. His reply? "I talked to Dave at deer camp and he said you were coming for Christmas and the boys were wanting to come here. They are welcome here anytime and we should be around here at that time. Give us a call. Uncle Joe" That is what I absoluletly love -- "THEY ARE WELCOME HERE ANYTIME!"

Our Joe (once old enough) would get up early on his own and drive Grandpa and Grandmas golf cart to Joes just so he could help with the chores. You can see from the photos, they started when they were very young (feeding the calves and holding the chicks.)

The picture entitled "My name" is something our Joe wrote in 7th grade. I found it today and thought I'd add it here.

Dave is with the family as they lay Uncle Joe to rest. Since I could not physically be there, I wanted to pay my respects by writing here. Jeanine Helmink - please pass on my deepest sympathies to your mom and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

We will stop by and visit again the next time we are in T-town. Much love --- Patty