Richard "Dick" William Hellinga

Richard William “Dick” Hellinga, 70, of Youngstown, NY, passed away on Tuesday, July 22, 2026, under the compassionate care of Niagara Hospice, following a courageous twelve‑year, on‑and‑off battle with cancer.

Born on March 25, 1956, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, Richard was the son of Sophie (Vonk) and the late William Hellinga. He attended Christian Schools in Edmonton and graduated from Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Michigan, earning his B.A. in Economics and Mathematics in 1978.

Richard began his career in banking with the Christian Credit Union in Edmonton and later with the Alberta Treasury Branch. In 1979, he married Carmen (Sankey), and together they were blessed with three daughters. In 1994, the family relocated to Lubbock, Texas, where Carmen pursued her nursing career and Richard discovered his passion for teaching. He taught all levels of mathematics at one of the area’s alternative high schools, guiding students with patience, humor, and a steady presence.

In 2001, Richard and Carmen moved to Bellingham, Washington. Richard taught math at Sehome High School before transitioning to a position with the B.C. Government as a farm appraiser for B.C. Assessments. In 2021, he retired and made one final move to Western New York to be closer to his daughters, who were living in Ontario at the time.

Richard will be lovingly remembered for his accepting nature and the calming influence he brought to every situation. He delighted in a good practical joke and took great pride in watching his “Girls” grow, learn, and eventually joke right back. He cherished friendships formed in every place he lived and found joy in simple, meaningful time spent with others.

A man of many interests, Richard especially enjoyed woodworking, tending to his tractor, biking, and caring for the family cats. His gentle humor, steady spirit, and deep love for his family will be forever treasured.

Richard was predeceased by his father, William (1974), and his brother, Gordon (2025).

He is survived by his beloved wife, Carmen; his loving daughters, Sonja Hellinga, Vanessa (Stefan) Kitai, and Jacqueline (Marc Borchet) Hellinga; his cherished granddaughter, Katarina; his dear mother, Sophie; and his caring siblings, David (Kelly) Hellinga, Audrey (Ronald) VanderVeen, Yvonne (John) Aikema, Bruce Hellinga, and Barbara Hellinga; sister-in-law Charlene (Gary) Prins. He is also survived by nieces and nephews.

There will be no prior visitation. Arrangements entrusted to HARDISON FUNERAL HOMES, INC., 3648 Ransomville Road, Ransomville. A Graveside Service will be held on Monday, July 27, 2026, in Oakland Rural Cemetery, Youngstown at 1 PM.

If desired, memorials may be made in Richard’s honor to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Drive, Lockport, NY 14094.

Please share condolences at HARDISONFUNERALHOMES.com.