Livonia, Michigan, September 6, 2025
News Summary
Helen M. Cosens, a dedicated educator and lifelong fan of University of Michigan football, has passed away at 99. Known for her passion for teaching and family, Helen’s legacy is cherished by many. Her teaching career spanned several decades, primarily focusing on early elementary education. Helen is survived by her children and grandchildren and will be remembered for her contributions to the community and love for family, as well as her many hobbies including reading and genealogy.
Livonia, Michigan – Helen M. (Shurtleff) Cosens passed away peacefully on August 31, 2025, at the age of 99. A dedicated educator and lifelong fan of University of Michigan football, Helen was remembered for her passion for teaching and her love of family, leaving behind a cherished legacy.
Born on January 1, 1926, in Levering, Michigan, Helen was the daughter of Will and Lillian (Sullivan) Shurtleff and was raised in Cross Village, Michigan. She graduated from Harbor Springs High School and went on to receive a bachelor’s degree in education from Central Michigan University in 1950. Helen furthered her education with a master’s degree from the University of Michigan.
Helen began her teaching career in Garden City, Michigan, where she dedicated many years to educating early elementary students. After building a successful career, she retired from the Plymouth-Canton School District, where she was highly regarded for her commitment to her students and the school community.
Aside from her professional achievements, Helen was a devoted family woman. In 1947, she married Walter L. Cosens, who has since passed away. The couple raised two children, Cindy (Daniel) Swigert and Walter (Mariesa) Cosens Jr. Helen took great joy in being a grandmother to five grandchildren: Kyle Swigert, Bradley Warren, Jeffrey Warren, Melanie (Chase) Richards, and Melissa Cosens.
Helen had a wide range of interests. She enjoyed reading, history, genealogy, travel, golf, bridge, and chocolate. Summers spent in Cross Village were particularly special for her, as they allowed her to connect with nature and family in a cherished location.
In addition to her husband Walter, who passed away earlier, Helen was preceded in death by her sister Elizabeth J. Richards. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, sister M. Jane Talcott, and many extended relatives and friends who will miss her deeply.
Visitation for friends and family will take place on Friday, September 5, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at R.G & G.R. Harris Funeral Home in Livonia, MI. Another visitation is scheduled at Schiller Funeral Home on Monday, September 8, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Helen will be laid to rest alongside her husband at Lakeview Cemetery in Harbor Springs at 3:00 PM on September 8, 2025.
The family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Helen’s memory to the American Heart Association, Harbor Springs Historical Society, or the Bentley Historical Museum at the University of Michigan.
Legacy and Impact
Helen M. Cosens’ legacy as an educator and her passion for community service made a lasting impact on those around her. As friends, family, and former students remember her, her dedication to teaching and her love for the University of Michigan football will continue to inspire future generations.
Remembering Helen
Her life is a testament to the joys of education, love for family, and the importance of community engagement. Helen’s memory will be honored not just through her family but also through the numerous lives she positively influenced throughout her teaching career.
FAQ
Who was Helen M. Cosens?
Helen M. Cosens was a long-time educator and a devoted fan of the University of Michigan football team who passed away at the age of 99.
Where did Helen Cosens grow up?
She was raised in Cross Village, Michigan, after being born in Levering, Michigan.
What was Helen’s involvement in education?
Helen had a long and successful teaching career, primarily working with early elementary students before retiring from the Plymouth-Canton School District.
When is Helen’s visitation and burial?
Visitation is scheduled for September 5, 2025, and September 8, 2025, with burial taking place on September 8 at Lakeview Cemetery in Harbor Springs.
What was Helen’s legacy?
Helen is remembered for her dedication to education, her love for her family, and her contributions to the community.
What charitable organizations are suggested for donations in her memory?
The family suggests donations to the American Heart Association, Harbor Springs Historical Society, or the Bentley Historical Museum at the University of Michigan.
Key Features of Helen M. Cosens’ Life
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | January 1, 1926 |
| Date of Death | August 31, 2025 |
| Education | Bachelor’s degree from Central Michigan University; Master’s from University of Michigan |
| Teaching Career | Worked in Garden City; Retired from Plymouth-Canton School District |
| Family | Survived by 2 children, 5 grandchildren, and extended family |
| Hobbies | Reading, History, Genealogy, Travel, Golf, Bridge, Chocolate |
| Charitable Donations | American Heart Association, Harbor Springs Historical Society, Bentley Historical Museum |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Obituary: Beverly Waid
- Wikipedia: Education in Michigan
- Obituary: Jill Wells
- Google Search: University of Michigan football
- Obituary: Conrad Czach
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Teaching
- Obituary: Willie Branham
- Obituary: Sonnia Cummins
- Obituary: Mary Tucker
- Google News: Education
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