Nee Connolly
A force of nature entered this world Aug 17, 1933 and left this earth on April 16, 2021. Helen was the apple of her Irish grandfather John Moriarty’s eye. She was beautiful, athletic and talented. In her youth Helen was an excellent figure skater and won races in war canoe during her summers spent at St Mary’s boat club. It was here she met her future husband Bert Hirschfeld, champion rower, NHL hockey player and one of the most gifted athletes NS has ever produced. Throughout her life, Helen enjoyed watching sports including the Triple Crown races excitedly cheering on the horses. Helen’s hobbies included knitting and crossword puzzles. She excelled at both.
Helen attended Convent of the Sacred Heart and then joined the financial services industry working for RBC, IAC, Lloyds Bank, Continental Bank and finally retiring after more than 25 years from HSBC. She held a groundbreaking position for women at that time as accounts supervisor and helped train many of the banks’ future executives. It was at work in 1960 that she met her dear friend Marjorie Janes McCully. No friend could have been more loving and loyal. They made and shared many great memories. Marjorie was always her pillar of support.
Helen and Bert enjoyed many summers at AYC on the Northwest Arm on their Cape Islander with their dog Scruffy at the bow. After retirement Helen and Bert travelled each winter to St Pete’s Beach, Florida enjoying swimming, shopping, golfing and spent many happy hours with their circle of friends. They also took several ocean cruises from Halifax to NYC. In later life Helen travelled with her daughter and granddaughter to Florida, Mexico, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic.
At home she cherished her friendships at Windsor Park, Stadacona and the Vimy legion. She played cards and darts enjoying the socializing and competition. Helen had a sharp wit and a sharp tongue but only those who knew her well also knew her emotional, soft and sentimental side. She also loved attending events at the Waeg and having her favourite chowder.
Helen is survived by her only child Marie Thomson and her only grandchild Vanessa. She was predeceased by her husband John Albert (Bert) Hirschfeld, parents Frances (Moriarty) Connolly and Gerald Connolly, her brother Deacon Jack Connolly and special friend Bill Newcombe. She also leaves behind former son in law Bill Thomson, sister in law Jeanette Connolly and nieces and nephews. Helen had loving support as her health declined from extraordinary care giver Christine MacDonald and the compassionate staff of 8.1 at the QE2 in the final weeks.
A special thank you goes out to my friend William Fenrick. He is the exemplar of what a strong and caring friend should be. He provided support to Helen in every way he could. She will also be greatly missed by our westie Piper whom she loved dearly.
My mother was my mentor, biggest supporter, and best friend. Vanessa and I will be forever grateful for her love. The void will be immense. Our shared memories will be a blessing. Mom was most of all true to herself and lived life on her terms. I am so proud of her.
A gathering will be held to celebrate Helen’s life when pandemic conditions permit. Donations can be made in Helen’s name to Heart and Stroke, Canadian Red Cross, Sacred Heart School of Halifax or a charity of your choice.
According to Helen’s wishes, she will be cremated and will rest with her husband in Mount Olivet. The arrangements are being handled by Cruikshank’s Funeral Home. On line obituary and messages can be left at: www.cruikshankhalifaxfuneralhome.com
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