Helen Jean Hearn

After a rich and full life, Helen passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 1st, 2019, in her 98th year, surrounded by her loving family. Dear mom of Gary (Irene), Terry (Lois) and Linda Crawford; grandma to Krista, Katie, Jennifer, Jackelyn, Natalie and Darren; and GG to Finley and Adrienne Bird, Raya and Edie Larson, and Sadie Beirnes.

Predeceased by her husband of 61 years, Edward Thomas (2006). Helen moved from the family home that she and Ed shared for decades to Wellington Park Terrace in 2017. In their retirement years, Ed and Helen focused on travelling and family: opening their home to countless Saturday morning coffee gatherings, Sunday dinners, birthday parties and family holiday celebrations. At the Terrace, Helen proudly continued to host her family for teas, crib games and even Thanksgiving dinner.

Always social, for over 50 years, Helen spent as much time as she could at the family cottage she and Ed built at Go Home Lake. During those years Helen managed the family dinners using a wood stove, an ice box and a Coleman lantern. In her final years, she graduated to a microwave and cell phone. She took great pleasure in bathing two generations, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, in the kitchen sink. A summer baby herself, Helen loved to swim at the Haunted Narrows home until her 90th birthday. She continued to celebrate her birthday there until last summer. Helen loved music and could often be heard joining in a Beatles’ chorus, enjoying an old church hymn or making one up on her own. She also loved a good dance party, whether as an active participant or later on, an enthusiastic spectator.

Helen was a voracious reader with a sharp wit, a gifted baker known for a “secret shortbread recipe” and a fervent knitter. She was always eager to share her creations – from top notch apple pie and damson plum jam to doll sweaters and dish cloths – and even more eager to share opinions...as any one of her children or grandchildren can attest to.

Thank you to the staff at the Terrace for your care and attention during those retirement home years. Helen found great comfort in her final days, as did her family, in the care of the amazing staff and Dr. Cary Shafir at Whispering Oaks, St. Joseph’s Health Centre, Guelph.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Gilbert MacIntyre and Son Funeral Home in Guelph. A private family memorial will be held at a later date. On line condolences can be sent to the family at www.gilbertmacintyreandson.com