Victoria “Abby” Abigail Helrigel, age 23, died at home Tuesday, May 16, following a two-year battle with brain cancer.

Abby’s smile, humor, and beautiful outlook remained unwavering as she bravely faced this journey. Abby graduated from Wayland Union High School in 2018 and was an honors student at the University of Michigan studying for a dual degree in English and linguistics. She was a gifted writer, with publications in The Café Shapiro Anthology and Mentality Magazine.

Abby dedicated her time to volunteer work with disadvantaged and at-risk youth.

Abby resided in Linton, Ind.; Brownsburg, Ind.; Wayland, and Ann Arbor.

She is survived by her father, Todd Helrigel; sister, Emma Helrigel; grandparents John and Alicia Helrigel; aunts and uncles Danny and Jenny Helrigel, Jon Robert and Francie Helrigel, and Libby Neidlinger; as well as five cousins.

She was preceded in death by her grandmother, Frances Marlow.

Per her wishes, cremation has taken place. Abby’s life will be privately celebrated by friends and family at a later date.

In memory of Abby and in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Refugee Education Center in Kentwood.