November 22, 1926 - October 23, 2020
It is with great sadness the family announces the passing of Helen Annie Kennedy ( nee Olson ) of Nanaimo, B.C.
Mom was born in Wetaskiwin, Alberta to Swedish immigrants who taught her the meaning of kindness, hard work and the importance of family.
Our parents met in Alberta, then moved to Langley in 1948. Over the next 7 years they would have a total of 6 children who kept Mom very busy going in all directions. As Dad worked away from home for long periods, it was Mom who made sure we were all taken care of as well as driving us to our many sports events often with extra passengers.When Grandpa Scottie died our uncle also came to live with us and Mom welcomed and loved him as much as the rest. Mom managed all this while caring for our small farm we had and taking care of her elderly disabled Mother, all with her unassuming strength.
Our parents moved to Whitehorse in 1968 for a few years, before returning south and eventually settling on Vancouver Island.
Everywhere they went were new friends they hadn't yet met. It would not be unusual for Mom to put on a meal for 12 or more folks in a hour if needed, and many times that happened as the family continued to grow, Mom loved flowers, jigsaw puzzles, scratch and wins, Wheel of Fortune, thrift stores, wine, travel, boating, the ocean, dancing and most of all her family.
Mom was predeceased by her husband Jim, her son Garry, her brother Bob, son-in-law Harley and her parents Louis and Christine Olson.
Mom has left to mourn Gord ( Janis ), Bruce ( Gail ), Donna ( Chet ) Ken (Judy ), Diane , Daughter in law Sharon ( Gary ), Uncle Wayne ( Shirley ).
Grandchildren Tammie ( Jim), Darren ( Kelly ), Matthew ( Jen), Tedra ( Alvaro ), Kevin, Alicia, Darcy, Christine ( Dustin), Stephanie ( Casey ), Jamie ( Shanon), Casey ( Leo ), Christen (Matthew), Cody.
Mom also leaves 15 Great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild.
As Mom always said "BYE FOR NOW"
Due to Covid 19 we will wait to hold her "Celebration of Life " when it is safe to do so.
Those wishing to make a donation can do so at the Charity of your choice.