Helen M. (natalino) Ratte

Groveland, MA: Helen M. (Natalino) Ratte passed away in the comfort of her own home, surrounded by her family after a lengthy illness. Helen was married for fifty-nine years to the late Elmer R. Ratte, Jr. and was presently residing in Groveland, MA. She was born in Haverhill and lived there for approximately seventy years.

Helen leaves one surviving brother, Richard Natalino and his wife Jan of Plaistow, NH. She was predeceased by two brothers, Frank and Ronald Natalino, and one sister, Rita Melanson.

Helen spent many summers at her home on Great East Lake in Wakefield, NH, and her winters in Edgewater, FL, until illness prevented her husband from traveling. After the passing of her husband, she would vacation with her family on Ossipee Lake.

Helen was well known in her community for providing a safe haven for children at risk that were assigned to her by the State Department of Welfare. She welcomed these children into her home and provided a temporary family environment for them until they could safely return home. In later years, she worked at the Bear's Closet in Haverhill, where she sold children's clothing. Her love for children was clearly demonstrated throughout her life.

Helen leaves her daughter and son-in-law, Cheryl and Pat Owens of Charlotte, NC, as well as her son and daughter-in-law, Alan and Jill Ratte of Newburyport, MA. She also leaves four grandchildren, James Owens of Charlotte, NC, Amanda Litzler and her husband Gerry of Herndon, VA, Michael Ratte of Medford, MA, and Sean Ratte of Newton, MA, two great grandchildren, Lucy and Abigail Litzler, and several nieces and nephews whom she thought the world of.

Helen's family would like to thank Laurie Cronin, a very close friend, for caring for Helen during her illness, and her nieces, Kathy Bisol and Laurie Grasso, who were like daughters to her and held a special place in her heart.

In lieu of flowers, the family request that all donations be made to Sarah's Place Adult Day Healthcare; Activities for Bingo, 180 Water Street, Haverhill, MA 01830. Sarah's Place provides daytime care to elders which in turn allows them the opportunity to remain in their homes longer. Helen was an avid Bingo player and would love any opportunity to provide elders with that same enjoyment. In an effort to honor the wishes of Helen, the services will be held privately at Brookside Chapel & Funeral Home, 116 Main Street, Plaistow, NH, at the convenience of the family.