Helen Josephine Gemzik (nee Prochera) passed away peacefully Saturday, November 21, 2015 in Nelson, BC. She was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba on March 8, 1928 to parents Joseph and Elizabeth Prochera (nee Shnerch).
She grew up in Winnipeg, where she met a handsome young man by the name of Leonard Gemzik whom she married on July 1, 1948. They had four sons: Bruce, Brian, John and Len Jr.
In 1969 the family moved to Nelson where they purchased a dry cleaning business. Mom was dad’s right hand every step of the way. She enjoyed knitting, crocheting, doing crossword puzzles, watching tennis, baking, and especially spending time with her grandchildren. There was always a baked good in the house for anyone that stopped by.
She was especially proud of her children and grandchildren and was blessed with a great granddaughter, Daisy in Australia in 2012.
Left to mourn are her loving husband of 67 years Len. Son Bruce and wife Gayle in Australia. John in Calgary. Len and wife Christine in Nelson. Grandchildren: Michael, Katie, Patrick, Kristopher and Robyn. She will also be missed by Gail Neufeld, who was very special to mom.
She was predeceased by her parents, son Brian (1970) and daughter in law Jane (2011). Sister Anne in childhood, brother Walter Prochera and sister in law Olive, sister Valerie and brother in law Gerry Tomanek and sister Florence Slivinski.
She had a special place in her heart for everyone. We will miss you mom.
The family would like to thank all those who helped with mom’s care especially in the Emergency Department and those on the 3rd floor at Kootenay Lake Hospital in Nelson.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Kootenay Lake Hospital Foundation or the Cancer Society of your choice.
Private graveside service.
Arrangements are under the direction of Thompson Funeral Service. Online condolences
may be expressed at www.thompsonfs.ca