Maria Olga Hildegard Helbig (nee Eich)

It is with sadness that we share with you the passing of Maria Helbig at the age of 88. Maria died peacefully at her home at Amica Lion’s Gate in West Vancouver on April 13, 2022. She leaves behind her daughter Monika and son-in-law Steve Frangos, her grandchildren Alex Sharp, Sara Frangos and Becca Frangos, her sisters-in-law Ellen Eich, Hilde Eich and Marlene Eich, her nieces and nephews Ute, Annette, Gabi, Gita, Karin, Sylvia, Klaus and Hildegard and goddaughter Jutta Zimmer. Maria was predeceased by the love of her life - Hermann Helbig, her three brothers - Josef Eich, Heinrich Eich and Franz Eich, as well as her daughter Caroline Helbig and son-in-law Michael Sharp who died in a tragic accident earlier this year.

Maria was born on July 10, 1933 in Bingen-am-Rhein, Germany, the youngest of four children. She often recounted the sadness and struggle of her young years in war-torn Germany which shaped her into the strong, resilient and resourceful woman she became. In the mid 1950’s she met her soulmate, Hermann Helbig. They married in Bingen in 1960 and shortly thereafter bravely embarked on a new life in Canada, settling in Montreal. Caroline was born in 1961 and Monika in 1964, and their cherished life as a family began.

Maria was a gentle and wonderful mom, devoted to her children. Life revolved around delicious family meals, the company of kind neighbours and world travels. She was a generous and thoughtful friend and “second mom” to many, fantastic cook and baker, talented potter, prolific gardener, beautiful singer, world traveler, consummate volunteer and gracious host. She also drew much happiness from her deep faith. Always quick to smile and lend a helping hand to someone in need, she made everyone around her feel special. Everyone loved Maria.

She was also a much-loved grandma. Alex, Sara and Becca especially loved to visit in the summertime, playing in her beautiful backyard pool, going for walks with her (no one could keep up with grandma’s pace) and enjoying her delicious Apfelkuchen and Erdbeerkuchen every afternoon.

We all marveled at Maria and Hermann’s beautiful relationship. They were soulmates, deeply devoted to one other and shared an enviable life. They loved to explore the world and enjoyed great adventures in the Arctic, Central and South America, the Caribbean and throughout Europe. Sadly, Hermann suffered a debilitating stroke in 1996 and Maria became his devoted caregiver for almost 20 years.

After Hermann’s death in 2013, Maria settled in an assisted living home in West Vancouver to be closer to her daughters. Caroline became her devoted companion and advocate. Even after her dementia progressed and her knees began to fail her, she was still able to enjoy her daily walks. Maria never lost her warmth, kindness and lovely smile. She will be missed.

Heartfelt thanks to all Maria’s wonderful caregivers - especially Vilma and Gloria - and staff at Amica Lion’s Gate. A memorial service will be held for Maria in the coming weeks at Christ the Redeemer Parish. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada or the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada.