Helga Margareth Bredal Bentsen

My grandma Helga was one of the kindest, classiest ladies I've ever met. She was a role model to me for how to live my life, from her respect, admiration and partnership with my grandpa, to being a best friend to her daughter my mom. I'll miss the many times all through my life where mom put the phone to my ear and it was grandma Helga on the other end. I'll miss the visits to Norway to see grandma, which are some of my greatest memories. Those we love don't go away, They walk beside us everyday. Unseen, unheard, but always near. Still loved, still missed and so always dear. Love you forever grandma and always in my heart.

Helga M. B. Bentsen was an exceptionally beautiful woman, who lived a truly rich and long life. My mom, Helga, taught me everything I know about being a good mother. She shared her love of music, literature, fine arts, sports, nature and travelling with her five children. She drove us to theatre plays in Oslo, to the ski hills, to the ocean, played tennis with us, and was even my scout leader. Mom was the perfect hostess at Doktorgården, our large country home, with family gatherings, dinners for dad's and her friends and relatives, or birthday parties for her children. She invited all the 24 kids in my class to my birthday party, so nobody should feel left out! When she was asked about her occupation, she replied: "A doctor´s wife in the countryside". With a nursing degree, she helped dad in his medical practice and research. What a fine and solid marriage!! Mom and dad always looked like they were newly in love! She was not only a full time mom, wife and hostess, but was also involved in the community, being on the school- and the church boards. She started a book club that to this day is alive! When her kids moved out, she became assistant head nurse at a childrens hospital, after taking additional courses . With her impeccable style, class and elegance, she was often nicknamed "Audrey H." or "Jackie O." Throughout mom's life there was a common thread, her strong Christian belief. She inspired in so many ways; including being strong, generous, positive, and with her Christian values; being honest, and knowing how to forgive. "Dear Mom, my children's grandma, my grandchild's great grandma, my best friend, my role model, words can not describe how much I miss you!!! At the same time, I know you have found peace, and have reunited with Dad. Love, yours forever, Inger Helene."