Helen Joyce (Chapin) Hubbard

HELEN JOYCE (CHAPIN) HUBBARD

Helen J. Hubbard, 91, of Cass City, died peacefully January 30, 2026 in United Hospice Residence of Aspire Marlette. She was born November 15, 1934 in Snover to Lloyd and Irene (McNaughton) Bader. She married Harold Eugene Chapin September 20, 1951. He died April 4, 1973. She married Newell John Hubbard December 20, 1980. He died May 30, 2008.

Helen defined what a devoted mom looked like by her unwavering loyalty, tough love, deep commitment and selfless sacrifice for her family; especially following the death of her first husband, Gene, as she took on the role of being a single parent. She adored her grandchildren and was extremely proud of their achievements. She was an avid supporter of their activities and would often be found in the bleachers cheering at football, basketball, and soccer games, wrestling matches, horse shows, and the 4-H fair. Helen was a faithful and steadfast sister, aunt, and friend. She was dependable and always available. Helen was a dedicated caregiver to Gene, Newell, and her parents, always putting them first and tending to their needs.

Regardless of life’s challenges, Helen remained faithful to God. Her faith was strong, but quiet. Helen was an active member of Shabbona Riverside Church and contributed greatly to her church by giving of her time, talents and resources, serving on numerous committees, teaching Sunday school, and leading music. Perhaps her greatest contribution was found in the kitchen making pie crust, potatoes, gravy, and overseeing kitchen activity. Helen was a trusted and influential youth leader. She was fun, often joining in on the “tp’ing” and mischievous pranks, but wasn’t afraid to “lower the boom” and be the disciplinarian. Cooking and baking were Helen’s love languages. For her, cooking was an act of love. She generously used her talents in the kitchen to share her compassion, concern, and encouragement for others. Helen was employed by Marlette Community Schools for several years in food services as Supervisor and Head Cook. Beyond the kitchen, she nurtured and mentored many young people as she listened, encouraged and loved on them.

Helen is survived by her children: Richard (Diane) Chapin of Marlette, Lane (Cindy) Chapin of Marlette, Vicki (Frank) Udell of Westland; daughter-in-law, Kathy Chapin of Marlette; grandchildren: Brannen (Cary) Udell, Amber (Matt Dalrymple) Udell, Riley (Ceci) Chapin, Jordan Chapin, Kayla (Nate) Esterline, Cody (Jessica) Chapin; great grandchildren: Hannah, Ian, William, Westly, Walker, Payton, Owen, Henry, Braylynn; great-great granddaughter, Noel; sisters: Marjorie Caister of Cass City, Audrey Halas of Royal Oak; sister-in-law, Sandra Bader of Cass City; many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; son, Paul Chapin; great grandson, Dustin Esterline; brothers: Robert (Shirley) Bader, Dale Bader; sisters: Donna (Gerald) Auten, Wanda (Ronald) Parrott; brother-in-law, Art Caister.

Funeral service held 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, February 3, 2026 in Shabbona Riverside Church with Pastor Josh Schmitz officiating. Interment in Elkland Township Cemetery in the spring. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be considered to Shabbona Riverside Church.

Visitation: 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, February 2, 2026 in Kranz Funeral Home, Cass City

10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Tuesday, February 3, 2026 in Shabbona Riverside Church

Arrangements by Kranz Funeral Home, Cass City