Helene Elaine Fraser (Balan)

Helene Elaine Fraser (Balan)

Passed on October 4, 2020

Peacefully, after living a full and active life Helene passed away on October 4, 2020 in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Helene is survived by her children: Les (Lorraine), Lise (Kevin), Kevin (Natasha) Curtis (Lynette) Grandchildren: Jayson (Kate) and their children Eloise, Estelle Jocelyn, Jaymie (Cole), Sean, Kyle, Kasey, Kloey, Addison, Aidan Brothers and Sisters: Carl, Lesley (Brenda), John (Elaine), Diane (Phil), Barbara (Ken) And many nieces and nephews.

Helene was predeceased by her brother George, sister Bonnie, father Cozma Balan, mother Vera Balan, and brother Alec.

Helene Elaine Balan was born on May 22, 1933 in Wood Mountain, Saskatchewan to Vera and Cozma Balan. Vera and Cozma Balan farmed at Elm Spring, SK and when Helene was 5 years old the family moved to Woodlands, Manitoba. Helene and her siblings had a lot of responsibility on the farm but being the oldest Helene was like a mother and a sister to her younger siblings, looking out for them at home and at school.

Helene excelled at school and at sports especially baseball. She played on competitive women’s teams and on a men’s team while she attended university in Winnipeg.

After Helene graduated from Woodlands School she moved to Winnipeg and attended a year of “Normal School” to be trained as a teacher. After one year she earned her Teaching Certificate and began a teaching career that lasted from the age of 19 to 83 years young.

While raising four active kids who played multiple sports and teaching full time in Winnipeg’s inner city schools, Mom continued to take university courses and graduated from the University of Winnipeg in May, 1980 with an Education Degree.

Throughout her teaching career Mom taught in many different communities: the Interlake, Pinawa, Winnipeg One, Thompson, Nelson House and Lake Manitoba. In every community she made a difference. Mom would ensure that her students had clothes, food, equipment and even places to stay if needed.

When Mom retired from teaching (for the 3rd time) she enjoyed spending time at her house in Winnipeg looking after her flowers outside, keeping her yard clean, often could be found sweeping and raking the neighbours yards as well. Mom loved the visits from her Grandchildren and her great-nephews Owen and Evan. Being able to watch her Grandchildren play sports was very special for Mom.

Our Mom, will be remembered for her strength, independence, determination, kindness and generosity and she will be missed greatly by her family: her children, brothers and sisters, nieces and nephews.

“A mom’s hug will last long after she lets go”

A Graveside Service was held. Pallbearers: Kevin Kirkpatrick, Sean Kirkpatrick, Jayson Balan, Jayson Fraser, Kyle Fraser, Kasey Fraser.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Alzheimer Society of Manitoba, 10 – 120 Donald Street, Winnipeg, MB, R3C 4G2.


Comments

Helene was a part of our family in Thompson. She peeled many potatoes and baked lots of brownies for us. I volunteered in her classes. I learned so much from her. We played hours of SKIPBO. She was so proud of her children and grandchildren. She was so special and we loved her.


Sandra Pennock

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