Enriqueta "Queta" Willhelm

Queta Willhelm, cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend to many, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 11th, 2025. Born on Saturday, April 26th, 1952, in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico, Enriqueta (Queta) Arriola-Roldan devoted her life to first our Lord God Jesus Christ, and second nurturing and enriching the lives of her family and those around her.

Queta has lived in Pasadena, MD. since 1988.  In 1989, she opened a day care facility that she owned and operated, called Queta’s Day Care, until her illness overtook her ability to work in 2021.  Queta was a born leader that she exhibited many times; in her church (Pasadena Seventh-Day Adventist Church) and business.  She touched the lives of countless children and others around her.  Queta also had a passion dedicated to serving the Lord, that was displayed in many ways through the church, family, and friends. 

Aside from Queta’s day care service, and the church activities, Queta enjoyed growing things: plants, vibrant flowers, organic vegetables and herbs.  Within the church, Queta played a major role as a Pathfinder leader – engaging in multiple adventures that have affected the children’s life to this day.

But the most important dedication is hands-down above all, is with her grandchild.  The time spent with them brought her immense happiness and fulfillment.

Queta is survived by her loving husband, Donald W. Willhelm of Pasadena, MD; her sons, Donald Felipe Willhelm and his wife Mary Kathryn Willhelm, and Fred Michael Willhelm and his wife Laura Nieman Willhelm. She is also survived by her siblings, Elvia Draper, Martha Willhelm, Patricia Calderon, and Felipe Arriola, as well as her 5 grandchildren: Wyatt, Henry, Finn, Magnus, and Logan Willhelm. Her legacy will continue through her grandchildren and the many nieces and nephews, who fondly remember her warmth and kindness.

Queta was preceded in death by her parents, Felipe Arriola-Fragozo and Graciela Roldan-Fontes, her brother, Rene Arriola, a sister Magdalena Arriola, and her youngest sister, Monica Arriola.

A memorial service to celebrate Queta's life will be held on Saturday, March 22nd, 2025, at 6:00 pm, at the Pasadena Seventh-day Adventist Church in Pasadena, MD.  Friends and family are invited to honor her memory, share stories, and find solace in her enduring spirit.
Queta Willhelm's love, generosity, and commitment left an indelible mark on all who knew her. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of her family, friends, and the community she so faithfully served.