Helen Marie Ferreira Mendes

It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Helen Mendes on April 17, 2025. Helen passed away peacefully at home at the age of 92 in Petaluma. She was born in Humboldt County to Antonio and Tereza Ferreira. The family later moved to Marin County and then to Sonoma County in Helen’s senior year of high school. She met and married her husband Manuel Mendes in 1956. They made their home in Terra Linda until moving to Petaluma in 1973.They were married 24 years before his passing in 1980. Two children were born to them, Manuel Jr. (Cathy) Mendes and Diane (Michael) Repp.

Helen is preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, Ralph and Dennis Ferreira and great grandson, Lucas Repp. She is survived by her children and their spouses, 5 grandchildren, Theresa, Jessica, Anthony, Johnathan and Brian and 3 great children, Cheyenne, Parker and Eloise, brother Tony Ferreira, sister Tereza Taylor and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A devoted Avie to the children, her eyes always lit up and a smile came across her face, when they entered the room. We send a special thank you to the friends and family that visited her this past year. Her presence will be greatly missed.

A member of the Portuguese Holy Ghost Societies of Petaluma, Sebastopol and Novato, Native Daughters of the Golden West Petaluma Parlor #222 and St. Sebastian’s Young Ladies’ Institute #116. She was also an avid volunteer for many years for the Salvation Army of Petaluma and the Redwood Empire Food Bank.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Helen to the Salvation Army of Petaluma, Redwood Empire Food Bank or the charity of your choice.

A service will be held on, Monday, May 12, 2025 at 10:30 A.M. at St. James Catholic Church, Petaluma, CA.