Helen passed away peacefully on 09 October 2021 at the North Bay Regional Health Centre, North Bay, Ontario. At 88 years, she left on her own terms -- thanks to the love and kindness of many people, some of them strangers. Helen was an exception to the rule; and she always said: “you’re only on earth for a holiday”.
Born in the city of St. John's in the Dominion of Newfoundland on 26 May 1933, Helen survived her parents and 8 siblings. In 1959 she married Howard Frances Vickers (23 Nov 1926 - 23 Mar 2001) and raised a family in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Labrador. Upon retirement, they moved back to St. John’s to enjoy time with their eldest daughter Cynthia Vickers-Brown and their grandchildren: John and Melissa (son-in-law John Tucker); and Ashley and Erica (son-in-law Darren Porter).
Helen later enjoyed living in Ontario with her daughter Lena Vickers (retired Major Cormier) (son-in-law Wayne); and her granddaughter Richelyn. Helen also spent several years in Alberta with son Howie (retired Corporal Vickers) (daughter-in-law Amanda); MacKenzie and her youngest grandchild Madelynne.
Helen was rooted (and pickled) in Newfoundland; she was a proud Canadian veteran mother and grandmother; and she lived life to the fullest -- wherever she hung her hat! An avid animal lover, Helen’s passion throughout life was supporting their welfare. If you wish to make a difference in her honour, please consider your local shelter or other charities. “It all helps the animals”, she would say, “even a few old clean towels”.
Thank you to the staff at the North Bay Regional Health Centre. Helen was an exception to the rule; and your patience and support was greatly appreciated, throughout the week. Thank you especially to Dr. Rappaport and the staff at the 22 Wing Family Medical Clinic -- we are so very grateful!
Arrangements were entrusted to McGuinty Funeral Home. As per Helen’s wishes, cremation has taken place at Whispering Pines Funeral Home’s Crematorium. Messages of condolences may be made at www.mcguintyfuneralhome.com