Shirley Gladys Helmer

Predeceased by her Husband Laurie in 1999. Shirley was the only daughter of George and Gladys Hayden. Born in Winnipeg Manitoba she is survived by her only son David, his wife Heidi and her beloved grandchildren Ceilidh and Kieran.

Shirley was known as a “Tom – Boy” and was a person who loved to ride her bike fast and rough house with the neighborhood kids as a child. Shirley lived on a farm in Cloverdale as a youth and loved being with the Horses, Cows and Chickens. With her own horse she would ride around the farm and help out wherever she could. Moving back to Winnipeg and attending “Gordon Bell” high school was certainly a highlight for her. After school Shirley went to work at Eaton’s department store in Winnipeg and was responsible to sending dress material to the Western stores in Canada. The experience at Eaton’s was one of the best in her life. Loved working at the store and continued to talk about it on a very regular basis.

Shirley then met the love of her life Lawrence Helmer fresh out of serving in the R.C.A.F. as a pilot during world war 2. Settling down to a very happy marriage in 1948 the decision was made to move to New Westminster B.C. so Laurie could work at the B.C. Penitentiary as the director of education. David came into the picture in 1961 and the family was whole. Shirley volunteered at Shiloh United Church in the choir, church board and Sunday School. When not volunteering Shirley was always working in her garden. Upon Laurie’s retirement from work the family moved to Victoria in 1979. Travel became a great passion with trips to England, California and many trips to Hawaii.

Shirley always a philanthropist supported many charities for many years. Animals especially were always a concern for her generous giving. Volunteering at Oak Bay Lodge as well as Centennial United Church choir rounded out any free time.

Shirley was surrounded by love from her family and especially loved sleep-overs with her grandchildren. A funeral service will be held at a later date when it is safe to do so through Centennial United Church.