With loved ones by her side, Helen Michel slipped away peacefully on Tuesday, March 6, 2018. Helen lived a long and full life and with the exception of her final few months, was able to spend her life without assistance and living at home. Her passing will be mourned by the family and many friends whose lives she touched with her love, kindness and compassion. Helen was born on Aug. 31, 1927 in Wakaw, SK. to Steve and Mary Palidwar.  Being the eldest of 8 children, it was expected during these times that the oldest help raise the younger brothers and sisters. Undoubtedly this early caregiver experience helped Helen to become a selfless wife, mother and grandmother who helped shape so many of us. The Palidwar family moved to Prince Albert where Helen spent her youth and it was in P.A. where Helen met the love of her life, Clarence Michel. They married in 1951. The young couple was soon blessed with four children who were to become the source of Helen’s greatest happiness and pride. She remained actively and joyfully involved in her children’s, grandchildren and great-grandchildren’s lives until her final day. Helen enjoyed an uncomplicated life and took pleasure in many small enjoyments  – whether it was writing in her diary, watching a show, or trying to win the big one on a lottery ticket or at the casino, she enjoyed her daily activities immensely. Helen also enjoyed music and was a big Elvis fan with “Unchained Melody” being her favourite song of all. Helen also loved to chat and wouldn’t hesitate to pick up the phone to see how a friend or a loved one’s day was going. Helen’s greatest gift, however, was her ability to listen. All that knew her were, at one time or another, the fortunate recipients of her wisdom. She was never judgmental and any advice offered was always given with a caring and deep love. She was a wonderful mother, grandmother, sister and friend whose passing leaves a huge void in our lives. We know her spirit lives on and will continue to guide us from above. She will be forever loved and missed by her children Wayne (Darlene), Wanda (John Belzevick), Willie (Blaine Bella) and Warren. Helen also leaves many grandchildren and great grandchildren to mourn her passing. She is survived by her brothers: Bill, Harry, Fred (Pat), Steve (Jean) and sisters: Anne, Nellie (Jim Gariepy) and Polly (Joe Romanchuk). She was predeceased by her husband Clarence and beloved grandson, Christopher (C.J.) Michel. She was also predeceased by sisters-in-law, Joyce Palidwar and Bonnie Palidwar; brother-in-law Graydon Britton and nephews Jim Gariepy Jr. and Brent Britton. It was at Helen’s request that no funeral be held. The family will hold a small gathering in the spring to celebrate her life. The family would also like to thank the many wonderful nurses, care aids and staff who helped care for her in the final few months of her life at Mt. St. Joseph’s and the Holy Family Hospital.  “Granny Cat has left the building”.

 

• Date : 2018-03-06