SISTER HELENE BELLEC

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SISTER HELENE BELLEC On June 13, 2005, surrounded by her sisters the Grey Nuns, members of her family and the nursing staff of Tache Nursing Centre, the Lord called back to Him his faithful servant, Sister Helene Bellec at the age of 93 and 70 years of religious life. Sister Helene was granted the gift of life on December 13, 1911 at St. Claude, MB her parents being Mathurin Bellec and Marie Le Frapper, a family of which nine girls were born. On August 5, 1931, Helene entered the noviciate of the Grey Nuns of St. Boniface, MB and consecrated herself to God on the footsteps of Marguerite d'Youville on February 15, 1934. After her profession, sister Helene studied at Regina Hospital in Saskatchewan and obtained her degree in nursing. The following hospitals were priveledged to benefit from Sister Bellec's giftedness as caregiver: Regina, SK; St. Paul, AB; La Verendyre, Fort Frances, ON; but mainly at St. Boniface General Hospital. When she left nursing in 1968, she continued at St. Boniface Hospital her ministry of love towards the sick as a pastoral worker until 1996. Energetic and woman of compassion, Sister Helene always found time to help someone in need. Her gentleness towards the families of the sick and dying was greatly appreciated. All recognized her dedication and kindness. People could count on her prayers, love and dedication. Members of her family had a special place in her heart and she was always happy to visit and welcome them. Sister Helene leaves to mourn five sisters: Germaine (Miller), Marie (Dion), Louise (Magne), Cecile et Therese (Rocan) as well as many nephews and nieces. She was predeceased by her parents and her three sisters, Valentine (Ratcliffe), Emelie and Agnes (Vandel). Prayers will be held at Tache Nursing Centre at 7:00 p.m. on June 15. The funeral mass will be presided by Fr. Edouard Bonin on Thursday, June 16 2:00 p.m. at St. Boniface Cathedral. Special thanks to the nursing staff and pastoral workers of Tache Nursing Centre, 3DE, for their excellent care and compassion provided to Sister Helene Bellec. Desjardins Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements, 233-4949 or toll free 1-888-233-4949.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 14, 2005