Obituary of Helen Strilchuk

Helen Mary (Gabruck) Strilchuk; our loving Mom, Grandma, Great-Grandma, Sister and Aunt passed away May 29th, 2011, at the age of 84. Helen is survived by her six children, Judy (George) Stucka, Randy Strilchuk, Teri (Brian) Sikstrom, David (Vonnie) Strilchuk, Donald (Jean) Strilchuk, Sherri Lynn (Arvid) Hasslebohm, her nine grandchildren, Zenon (Renee) Stucka, Brande (Jerry) Stucka,Tyson (Karry) Sikstrom, Taryn Sikstrom, Melanie (Carl) Strilchuk, Trista Strilchuk, Megan (Joey) Strilchuk, Justin (Brenna) Strilchuk, Jesse (Ashley) Strilchuk, and her four Great-grandchildren, Tyler Robert, Madison Stucka, Dorien Gibbs-Sikstrom and Kiana Sikstrom. Helen is also survived by four brothers, and two sisters, Anne, Olga, Victor, Stan, Peter and George. Helen was pre-deceased by her husband Phillip, baby brother, and grandson Tyler Jason Sikstrom. Helen was born to William and Mary Gabruck on August 5th, 1926. Helen's early years were spent between Quarrel and Daysland, Alberta. There, Helen would master the qualities and values, that made her the perfect wife, mom, grandma, Great-grandma, sister, aunt, friend and neighbour. Helen met Phillip at the restaurant, where she worked. They were married July 15th, 1947. Helen and Phillip moved to the homestead, in Round Hill, Alberta, where she lived most of her life. Helen was the perfect match for Phillip, and would take pride in caring for their growing family. Helen played an integral role on the farm; from milking cows, to feeding pigs and chickens. She could also be found washing parts in Phillip's shop. But her true calling was in the family kitchen. Throughout the Round Hill Area; Helen's kitchen was well known. Day or night, Helen would warmly welcome friends and neighbours, with a fresh cup of coffee, and her "special of the day". Helen's specialties ranged from the best apple pie and cinnamon buns, to her Ukrainian holubsti and pyrogies. Her borscht was unrivalled, as her son-in-law George can vouch for, having ate 14 bowls, one Christmas Eve. Helen's children would often share a laugh truly believing that their mom froze fresh fruit before Del Monte did. With a growing family to feed, Helen became an avid gardener. In Helen's garden you would find an assortment of vegetables and flowers. Helen even successfully grew peanuts, watermelon and cantaloupe. One year in particular, Helen checked her garden daily, looking for pea and cucumber seedlings, to no avail. Then she saw Bambi (the pet deer) munching on her prized peas and cucumbers, and the mystery was solved. From that time on, Helen's love for deer blossomed. This love for birds and animals gave her much enjoyment and comfort. Helen was also an accomplished knitter and crocheted, and would donate a winter's work of hats, mittens, ear-warmers and blankets to anyone in need. Helen enjoyed watching hockey and curling on television, and playing cards with the family. She was also an ardent reader. During the summers, you could find Helen riding the lawnmower; cutting acres of grass. Much to her family's dismay and concern, Helen insisted on continuing this task, until it became impossible for her to do. With all the demands on Helen's time, she still found time and energy to be the best Grandma and Great-Grandma, doting on them when they came to visit. Helen's last year was filled with many trials and tribulations. During this time, her strength and determination were obvious. Helen will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by her family and friends. Helen, the memories you have given us will live in our hearts forever. Love your Family " A Mother holds her children's hand for a while…their hearts forever" Unknown A prayer vigil was held on Thursday, June 2, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. from the Burgar Memorial Chapel. Mass of the Ressurection was held on Friday, June 3, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. from St. Francis Xavier Roman Catholic Church with Rev. Larry Pederson as Celebrant. Memorial contributions are gratefully accepted to The Diabetes Association.