Helen Elizabeth McWhirter Campbell, 89, passed away surrounded by her loving family in Nelson Jubilee Manor on November 4, 2016.
Helen came into the world full of vim and vigour. Her energetic approach to life never left her. She was born in New Richmond, Quebec on December 2, 1926.
The family farm and fishing camps were a place of absolute joy for mum as she reveled in nature and especially loved all animals, the wind in the trees, and the rushing Atlantic salmon rivers. She was one with nature.
Helen graduated from Mount Allison University. She taught elementary school specializing in special-needs children and also taught adults literacy. She believed in experiential learning so every day was a learning opportunity.
Helen ran the family fly-fishing salmon camps in the summers and was revered for her fly-tying skills and fishing prowess. Many a novice fisherman learned to cast with Helen and sometimes would catch her on the ear. She would just laugh and pull the fly hook out; “Try again” she would say.
On top of her busy full-time jobs, Helen then opened a consignment store back in the 60’s. She encouraged people/groups who were marginalized to create and sell their wares. It was all about giving back. Typical Helen.
Appreciation and kindness were part of her breath as she navigated through her busy life. You could feel her effervescence and optimism as smiling, laughing, and joking came naturally for Helen.
She was an active member of the United Church as an elder, choir member, and all-round helper.
Helen married Art Campbell in 1952. They had a unique and wonderful partnership filled with excursions bird-watching, animated dinner discussions, hours nurturing their exquisite (and expansive) gardens, and community work. They were a socially-minded couple advocating for world peace. When 911 occurred they promptly rallied their grand-daughters and made a huge peace sign with Black-eyed Susan flowers for the church.
Helen was the shining light for her daughters, Brooke and Jennifer and for grand-daughters Aveleigh and Brynna. She was a great Mum /Nana. She modeled combining having fun with hard work as well as energetic healthy living and a strong moral code. Helen earned her ‘Energizer Nana’ moniker every jaunty, joyful step of the way.
She called a ‘spade a spade’ and was a vocal advocate for human and animal rights.
We loved our Helen, our Mum, our Nana, our Friend. How blessed we are to have known her. Rest in peace dear one.
Thankfulness goes to the steadfast Jubilee Manor nurses Ann, Heather, Liz, Olga, Paula, & Susan; Rec leaders Rose & Kathy as well as the supportive care aids. Thanks also to Ruth, Joe, Kari, Vivian, Lise, Soon-Yeen. We are also forever grateful for the special care of Dr. Dharma McBride. Dear friends in Nelson who supported Helen include Annie, Angela, Jen, and Mary. Our family loves you all for the kindness and joy you brought into Helen’s life.
Helen will be sorely missed and is survived by her daughters, Brooke (Nelson) and Jennifer (Vermont) as well as her cherished grand- daughters, Aveleigh (Nelson) and Brynna (London UK); as well as her brother Ron (Fredericton) and her sister Janet (London, Ont); and the many dear nieces and nephews.
Her beloved husband, Art, preceded Helen in death.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Jubilee Manor Foundation ‘In Memory of Helen Cqampbell”.