July 3, 1937, to January 7, 2025
As per her intentions, Helen died peacefully in her home at the age of 87. She was surrounded by loving family, holding Greg’s hand, her husband of 63 years.
Helen is predeceased by her parents Andrew and Ellen Keith (Currie) as well as brothers John (Barb) and Bill (Michele). She leaves behind her beloved husband Greg and sons Geoff (Sally), Greg (Anuradha), Dan (Jane) and David (Emily). Adored Grandmother to Will, Kate, Ellen, Samuel, Claire, Harry, Teddy, Max and Lara. Older sister of Nancy (Peter) and Aunt “Hummie” to nieces and nephews.
Helen was born and raised on the shores of Georgian Bay at the Keith Dairy in Collingwood Ontario where she was actively involved in running the farm. Lifelong friendships were established at King George Public School and the opening of Collingwood Collegiate where she graduated class president. Greg asked Helen (the morning of) to the Cadet Dance in grade 9 beginning a love affair for the ages. Determination and persistence carried her far in academic, athletic and cultural pursuits. She always set high expectations for herself. Helen graduated from the University of Toronto in 1960. Helen and Greg married in Collingwood at the First Presbyterian Church on December 23, 1961.
Her professional career as an educator lasted over forty years culminating as Head of Guidance at Westwood Collegiate in Peel DSB. Those she worked with were in awe of her endless patience, compassion and professionalism. No matter the circumstances, Helen always advocated “they are still just children.” She always saw the good in others. Doors were opened and options provided with wisdom and insight. Helen extended her career by two years in order to clandestinely restore Greg’s dilapidated 1967 Plymouth Sport Fury convertible. The Plymouth remains on the road.
Early in their education careers, Helen and Greg moved to Etobicoke where they took great pride raising their four sons. An active house full of laughter also played host to the legendary Keith Family Christmas Parties. Their kitchen table was a gathering point at the end of each day where Mom made nearly every single meal. Food equals love. The culinary proficiency of her sons is testament to their ability to follow her recipes.
As the family expanded, Helen took great joy in the accomplishments of her daughters-in-law and grandchildren. Her motto “a cookie for each hand” escalated her to the pinnacle of grandmotherhood. Helen listened first and advised later and only if advice was requested. She loved the young people they have turned into today and nothing gave her more joy than hearing their voices in the house.
Her gardens were a reflection of Helen’s belief in beauty and order. Curiosity and continuous learning allowed her to annually compete against her own high standards. Her magnificent roses were nourished and attended with care and vision. She hosted fashionable garden parties featuring signature straw hats and strawberry shortcake.
Upon retirement, Greg and Helen returned to Collingwood where she focused her attention on community involvement. Among her projects, Helen was involved in Meals on Wheels, settling a newly arrived family from Syria and local hospital committees pioneering health at home initiatives. There was no such thing as a small act of kindness. Eight decades as euchre partners and Helen would still ask Greg, “If I order you up do I have to go alone?” The compassion and detail of her caregivers in her final days was a blessing. The last lesson she ever taught us was how to exit this life with dignity and grace. Greg never left her side. Helen remains a force.
Visitations will take place at Fawcett’s Funeral Home on Monday January 13 from 2 until 4 and 6 until 8pm. Funeral services will be held at The First Presbyterian Church of Collingwood at 1 pm on Tuesday January 14. A reception to follow at Lakeside Restaurant at the Living Water Resort near the site of the Keith Dairy. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Helen’s name to the newly announced building of the Collingwood General Marine Hospital. Friends may visit Helen’s online Book of Memories at www.fawcettfuneralhomes.com