BOCA RATON, Fla. — Helen (Cohen) Aitken of Boca Raton, Fla., formerly of Williamstown, Mass., passed away March 28, 2016.

Born in North Adams, Mass., she found her professional niche early in life. She began her long career in the restaurant and catering industry at Le Country Restaurant. From there, she worked at the Mill on the Floss, where she became dining room manager. She then continued her career at Williams College. She began as manager of the college’s Faculty Club and later was promoted to associate director of Dining Services.

In 2002, she left Williams in order to fulfill her long-time dream of having her own restaurant. She opened Helen’s Place, a popular and successful eatery and catering company located on Spring Street in Williamstown. She operated Helen’s Place until her retirement in 2010.

In addition to her dedication to her children and her many career successes, Mrs. Aitken was a non-traditional student; she earned her bachelor’s degree from Southern Vermont College in 1995. She was also dedicated to helping the community at large by volunteering for a variety organizations, including Hospice of Northern Berkshire, Habitat for Humanity, Santa Fund and the Williamstown Visiting Nurses Association.

She is survived by her four children, James Aitken, Rebecca Lough, Stephen Aitken and Sarah Aitken; three grandchildren, Trevor Lough, Grant Aitken and Quinn Aitken; and two brothers: Donald Cohen and Jason Cohen.

Funeral services: Private burial will take place in Congregation Beth Israel Cemetery in Clarksburg, Mass. There are no calling hours. A celebration of her life will be held later this spring. The Flynn & Dagnoli-Montagna Home for Funerals is in charge of arrangements.