HELEN B. LILLIE

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HELEN B. LILLIE On October 26, 2003 after a brief illness, Helen passed away at Grace Hospital. Those of us left behind are greatly saddened by her passing, but as a happy and positive person Helen would want us rather to celebrate a life well lived. She left us as she lived among us, in a quiet unassuming fashion with dignity and grace. Helen was born in Winnipeg on February 8, 1920, the eldest daughter of James and Bessie Lillie. During her younger years, Helen attended General Wolfe and Daniel MacIntyre schools. After graduating, Helen spent a number of years working at various occupations before finding her calling as the medical secretary of the late Dr. W.L. Parker, the former Chief Medical Examiner for the province of Manitoba, at Deer Lodge Hospital. Retiring after 35 fulfilling years, Helen volunteered at the Adamac Credit Union working as a secretary. Helen loved to travel and ventured to many a corner of the globe, often with her best friends from childhood Madge Stevens and the late Francis Black. An accomplished musician, Helen was the organist for the Maryland United Church and sang with the Senior Citizens Choir of Winnipeg. As a resident of McClure Place, Helen devoted many hours to volunteer work holding numerous positions with the Tenants Association. Predeceased by her father James, her mother Bessie and brother, Jim, Helen is survived by her sister Kay Robson (Bill) her nephews, nieces, and great nephews and nieces. Helen was a loyal and loving friend. Her kind, gentle way touched everyone who came into contact with her. She will be missed by all who knew her. Family always came first for Helen. Having no children of her own, Helen was like a second mother and grandmother to her nephews and nieces. As Bryan, a great-nephew described her, "She was always happy and had a gentle laugh." They have lost an aunt, a friend and confidant. In the last few years, failing health had greatly limited Helens mobility. Fiercely independent, this was a terrible frustration for her. Her family is grateful that her spirit is now released to move freely. We love you Helen and will miss you. We look forward to the day we are all united again. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made, in her memory, to the charity of your choice or Winnipeg Senior Citizens Choir, 533 Greenwood Pl., Winnipeg, MB, R3G 3M1. Memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 29 at McClure United Church, 533 Greenwood Pl. A reception to follow. Arrangements entrusted to: CHAPEL LAWN FUNERAL HOME CEMETERY AND CREMATORIUM 885-9715

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 28, 2003