Helen Robena Denton

September 9, 1937 - May 29, 2026

It is with great sadness, but also with deep gratitude for a life so well lived, that we announce the passing of Helen Robena Denton on May 29, 2026, at the age of 88.

Born in Orangeville, Ontario, on September 9, 1937, Helen was the youngest of eight children born to Mabel and Thomas Little of Mono, Ontario. She was predeceased by her parents, all of her siblings, and her first husband, Ted Evans.

A true Ontario farm girl at heart, Helen possessed an adventurous spirit that stayed with her throughout her life. After becoming a nurse, she set off for England to work, hitchhiked across Europe, and along the way met Dr. Ted Evans, the man she would marry. Their adventure together continued in Wainwright, AB, where they spent ten years building a life and starting a family before eventually settling in the Hamilton area.

As her children grew older, Helen returned to nursing and spent many years caring for others at Blackadar Nursing Home. Her compassion and dedication left a lasting impression on everyone she met. Sandy Blackadar affectionately referred to Helen as "her angel," a description that many would agree suited her perfectly.

After Ted’s passing in 1996, Helen’s story found a new and unexpected chapter. She met widower Frank Denton, and the two decided to begin a new life together. Helen was warmly welcomed into the Denton family and quickly became part of its heart. She spent many holidays surrounded by the large and lively Denton clan, embraced with open arms and right at the centre of the laughter, meals, and togetherness she loved so much.

Helen is lovingly remembered by her husband, Frank Denton; her children, Paul (Bernadette), Heather (George) and grandson Josh, and Stephen (Jenilee) and granddaughters Chloe and Layla. She will also be dearly missed by her stepchildren Diana, Frank (Joan), Alan (Anne), and Brian (Laura), as well as her many step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren.

Helen had an enthusiasm for life that was impossible to miss. She wanted to be involved in everything she could fit into her busy schedule. She loved travelling, learning, helping others, and taking part in new experiences. Whether it was family gatherings, community activities, or lending a hand wherever needed, Helen was happiest when she was connecting with people.

Above all else, Helen loved. She loved her family, her friends, her work, and the life she was given. That love was returned many times over by all who knew her. Her kindness, warmth, curiosity, and generous spirit will remain in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

In the end, Helen fought and won her battle with cancer, and was able to leave us on her own terms, quickly and with dignity of other natural causes.

Helen's life was a remarkable journey filled with adventure, service, laughter, and love. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Ted Evans Scholarship Fund of McMaster University, the Alzheimer Society, or the Canadian Cancer Society would be greatly appreciated.

Further service arrangements to follow.