Helen Alexandra Carswell

Helen passed away peacefully at home with loved ones by her side. She will be deeply missed by her husband of 66 years, Allan, her children Don (Elizabeth), Ruth (Bob) Graham and Diane (Taner), her adored grandchildren Allan (Alana), Patricia (Simon), Donald (Carine), Peter (Alicia), Heather, Alexandra, Sarah and Michael and very special great grand-daughter Georgia. Loving sister to Ruth (Paul) Gardiner and sister-in-law to Tom Reid and Norman Wills. Helen was predeceased by her dear sister Isabelle Reid, sisters- in- law Anne Wills and Patricia Carswell and brother-in-law Duncan Carswell. She will also be missed by her many loving nieces, nephews and family near and far.

Helen was a Nurse, Mom, Homemaker, Business Woman, Entrepreneur and Philanthropist. She recalled fondly her years training and working at Toronto East General Hospital, but left there for her most important work, her children and large extended family. Her first entry into business was the creation of Sew Rare, a small sewing company with her sister Ruth and friends. Later, with her husband Allan, they started Optech, a laser technology company. With the success of Optech, Helen was able to transition to philanthropy. She and Allan have supported many causes and charities in healthcare and education.

They were a team for 70 years. All things in life, work and leisure were accomplished together or in consultation with each other. Helen was kind and gentle but certainly would make her views known. She provided wise counsel in both business and family matters. She created the most comfortable and loving home that welcomed many. A generous hostess, she held countless family gatherings at home, at “the farm” and on the boat. She enjoyed travelling the world, but definitely not camping! She was an accomplished sewer and knitter. She loved a good game of bridge, a shopping excursion or a big bowl of popcorn.

For the past 20 years Helen has lived with the impacts of advancing Alzheimer’s disease. With Allan at her side, she remained at home and involved in family life even with declining abilities. The York Region D.A.Y. program was an important support.

The family would like to thank Maria Mabanes who has been the most loving companion and caregiver for the last 10 years. Her devotion to Helen and Allan has been a precious gift to our family. We also express our appreciation for all of the wonderful care from Gloria, Daphne, Fariba, Rosalie and Erlinda.

Friends and family are invited to an outdoor visitation at The Pavilion, Black Creek Pioneer Village 1000 Murray Ross Parkway, Toronto, Ontario from 2-6pm on Sunday July 24th. A family funeral service was held.

In lieu of flowers, you may consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Society or Michael Garron Hospital Foundation (formerly Toronto East General Hospital).

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family through the Kane-Jerrett Funeral Home website at www.kanejerrett-thornhill.ca.