Tribute

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our loving and devoted mother and friend to all those whose lives she touched, on April 2, 2023 @ 6pm…

She left us peacefully in her 96th year, with family around her, at Mariposa Gardens in Osoyoos, BC.  We wish to thank mum’s care team, especially Jocelyn for her loving attention and care.

Born in Seattle, Washington, USA on July 1, 1927, she witnessed incredible changes to her world during her life. She first worked as a telephone operator in New Westminster, BC and then married young and raised her family on a dairy/crop farm in East Delta, BC.

Predeceased by her parents, Viola and Russell Bennett, her brothers Charlie and Stanley and son-in-law, Richard Johnson.  She is survived by her beloved children Albert (Doreen), carol (Joanie), Marion (Tim); grandchildren Christopher, Sean (Allison), Kelsey (Chris), Cody (Brooklyn), and great grandchildren Eveliina, Annika, Payton, Quinn, Onyx and Sage.  She is also survived by her youngest brother Gordon (Ruth) and her former husband Raynard.

Helen lived a very full life as a loving mother, homemaker and farm wife. For over 30 years she was a devoted volunteer with the Delta Hospital Auxiliary Thrift Shop in Ladner, BC.  Known for helping others in need, she handmade and donated many quilts for young mums and children of the Downtown Eastside through First United Mission Church in Vancouver, BC.  She also had an amazing knack of knowing with one glance, what size clothes you wore, allowing her to send clothes she either found at the thrift shop or elsewhere, that would fit like a glove.  Mum was indeed a seasoned professional shopper and loved being able to land the best price or negotiate one.
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She loved living and working on the farm in East Delta where she always kept a huge vegetable garden and all kinds of flowers especially sweet peas, which were her passion.  She also adored her beloved space at Birch Bay, USA.  Helen also loved to cook and bake, and to share good food, friendship and fun at Sunday night dinners which were a weekly occurrence.

Most of all Helen loved her family and friends, instilling strong values that have served us all well. She kept her sharp wit and humour right to the end.  We will remember sharing many laughs along with lots of fun times together. She will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts.

Who is remembered, lives!  Toodaloo dear mum… until we meet again.

The family is holding a private celebration of Helen’s life.

Please, in lieu of flowers a donation can be made in Helen’s name to the Delta Hospital Auxiliary Thrift Shop in Ladner, BC. https://www.deltahospitalauxiliary.org/