Helen Matilda Brauer
September 12, 1923 – March 10, 2021
Our family is deeply saddened to announce the passing of our Helen. She was the bedrock of our family, the font of much wisdom, and a “card shark” right to the end of her days. Over her 97 years, Helen touched so many members of the wider-community that it would be impossible to capture every name. She was active in the Women’s Institute throughout her lifetime, preserving the knowledge that was (and is!) so important to our daily lives in small and rural communities. And for the past several years, she lived at Pleasant Valley Lodge, a place that she enjoyed and felt deeply cared for by staff and fellow residents. Her last day’s were spent in the Athabasca Health Care Center where she received the very best care from Dr. Ogunnupe and the nursing staff.
Helen’s lasting imprint on so many often begins when they were children. Every child was welcomed and loved by Helen. For her grand children (Sandra and Jonathan), nothing was withheld. And for her nieces and nephews, there was always a place to stay overnight (such amazing adventures), unforgettable meals and treats, and a place to shelter from any storm. There was always a twinkle in Helen’s eye and a solution to any problem. For her friends — and there are so many— she was always up for an adventure or card game. She laughed easily, cried sparingly but with empathy, and loved deeply.
Helen is pre-deceased by her husband Albert, sisters Edna and Gloria, brothers Raynard and Bert, and daughter Gloria. She is cherished and loved by her daughter Dee, son-in-law Fred, son-in-law Rheal, grandchildren Sandra (Sandeep) and Jonathan (Erica). She was fortunate enough to also know and spend time with her great grandson, Mark. Helen is survived by her sisters Carol (Wally) and Maxine (Fred) and
brother Bob (Sophie).
In keeping with her wishes, no funeral will be held at this time. A celebration (she wanted a party) will be held later in the summer as COVID restrictions lift.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to:
PVL Fund Raising Club
Athabasca Healthcare Auxiliary Association
Meanook Community Club (Cemetery Fund)
Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded to the family by visiting westlockfuneralhome.com
Westlock Funeral Home & Crematorium Ltd.
780-349-3474
