Helen Sylvia Byrne better known as Heidi, Mom, Dander passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Wednesday, August 12, 2020. Born in Halifax, Nova Scotia on September 1, 1936 and grew up on Carlton Street. Heidi attended the Sacred Heart Convent School from which she graduated. With great pride, Heidi, was crowned Queen of the Sea in 1956 in Lunenburg, NS. Heidi continued her secondary education graduating from Ryerson University in Toronto with a Bachelor of Child Studies and went on to teach at St Georges Private School in Montreal.
Heidi married the love of her life, Michael Byrne in 1959 and raised five kids. The busy family lived between their festive homes on Oakland Road, “Embyr Lodge” on the Medway River and “The Church” in Wentworth. All of which were constantly filled with family, friends and the sound of laughter and lively debate.
Heidi was on the bleeding edge of womens’ fitness starting her running, swimming, and fitness regimen in her early 30s. She courageously started skiing at the age of 42. Heidi even completed her first triathlon at the age of 49. She was a devoted Roman Catholic and volunteered in many community organizations.
Heidi loved nothing more than to have all her family and more together for any occasion that required a large meal. Nothing made Mom happier than having everyone all under one roof for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter or any other celebration. Heidi was an awesome cook, baker (her Christmas cookies are famous), maker of strawberry jam, fudge, and homemade molasses brown bread to name a few.
Heidi is predeceased by E. Michael Byrne, her loving husband of 47 years and granddaughter, Gabriell Jans Byrne Henderson.
Lovingly remembered by her children - Shannon Susko (Chris), Leslie Henderson (Peter), Damian Byrne (Mary Ellen), Gregor Byrne (Anne Marie) and Kelley Burry. By her grandchildren – Embyr-Lee, Matthew, and Cain Susko, Isabelle and Leigha Henderson, Lucas, Rachel, and Jessie Byrne, Sarah and Michael Byrne, Emma-Lee and Alex Burry. By her brother Paul Lee (Jill), sisters Sandy Young and Jenny Brickaden. Brother-in-law, Dr. Brian Byrne (Roz) and many nieces and nephews.
Special thanks to Dr. Joanna Zed, and the incredible caring medical team at Halifax Infirmary Wing 8.4. Funeral Service will be held at Saint Mary’s Basilica, Halifax, NS and Interment in Wentworth, NS. Both by invitation only.
Condolences for the family may be offered at www.jasnowfuneralhome.com
Flowers gratefully declined. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to FEED NOVA SCOTIA.
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