It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Helen, our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Helen passed peacefully on Sunday March 13th, 2022, at the age of 87 years and 11 months. To mourn and cherish her memory, Helen leaves her children: Janice Grubert, Jason (Cheryl), and Nori-Ellen (German); grandchildren: Tyler, Chantel (Ben), Adam, Megan (Theo), Alex, Jasmine, and great-grandson Theo; numerous nieces and nephews, and a number of other family members and friends.
Helen was predeceased by her husband John in 2010 and spent the ensuing years with her devoted family who adored her. She loved life, and her positive attitude and the joy she found in the smallest things endeared her to everyone. Family was a priority to Mom, and she was happiest when they were all together. Each of her grandchildren have special memories of her, and every one of them shared a wonderful relationship with Grandma. Mom was a hands-on involved Grandma, taking them to the park, building forts, baking with them, and having sleepovers. She attended all the grandchildren’s soccer games and activities, cheering them on from the sidelines. Her pride and devotion were endless, and she has left a legacy of love and family for each of them to hold in their hearts.
Helen’s grandchildren said:
“I always enjoyed going over for sleepovers. Walking to Northgate and shopping at Zellers, then going to watch a movie and grandma would always fall asleep. Then always to the pet store to look at the fish, then have chicken fingers at Joeys. The 10-hour trips to the zoo because we never knew which bus to take, but the trips would always include Sargent Sundae! The fries at the canteen after mini soccer games (but grandma always put way too much seasoning on them). Watching Jessica at 6 p.m. and all the black and white movies. Grandma will always be my best friend.” ~Jazz
“Grandma became a great grandmother when my son was born, but we always knew she was nothing short of great. She provided the support system everyone wishes for, and for that we are forever thankful and fortunate to have had her help guiding and raising us throughout the time we had together.” ~Megan
“Grandma did so much for us and never asked for anything in return.” ~Adam
Her kindness and loving personality ensured our home was always filled with people. She had many life-long friends who she spoke to daily and the relationship she had with her “girls club” spanned her lifetime. Thank you, ladies for your support, love, and friendship to our mother, she loved and treasured each one of you.
Janice, Jason, and Nori-Ellen’s friends considered her their surrogate mother, she offered advice, acceptance, and her home to anyone in need. Mom touched many people and enriched many lives. She will live on in the stories and memories of family and friends for generations to come. Her love will carry on with each of us.
Cremation has taken place and a celebration of Mom’s life will take place in summer. In lieu of flowers the family has requested donations be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
Rest in peace Mom, you will be forever in our hearts.
7 thoughts on “Helen Olynyk Nee Nowicki”
I worked with Helen at ADP Systems. She was delightful.
Fond memories of this lovely lady. She was a joy to know. Condolences to Janice and the Olynyk family.
A rare treasure of a woman who was always a girl at heart.
Helen and I worked together for many years, she was a kind and loving women. She treated me like a daughter. She will be deeply missed and never forgotten. My condolences to the family.
My deepest condolences to Janice and the rest of your family. Still remember Helen’s favorite motto: Children, children where shall we put you, I guess you know the rest. We really had some happy times back in the 90’s. R.I.P.
Helen/Auntie Helen
A very dear and sincere friend. for the past 78 years. Helen was always included, and part of our family, relatives, and friends.
We will all miss her dearly.
Love from the Morison family
Im very saddened to hear about the loss of this wonderful lady! I met her way back in the late 70s early 80s when i played soccer with her daughter Nori, from that time on she always made mw feel like I was one of her children and I always felt comfortable and welcome i her home , and the later years when i would run into her at seven oaks after she had come from the wellness , and sometimes i was on my break so id have my lunch or coffee with her and shed always have a story or two to tell amd always filled me on Noris life. The pandemic has made it hard for everyone to go anywhere so i havent seen her since before 2020 but I will always remember her and my mom cheering us on from the sidelines at soccer games and her wonderful zest for life , such an inspiration ! Rest easy Mrs O.
Tammy Solleveld