On February 25, 2014, Helen passed away to be with all those who have gone before her. This includes her husband, Milton in 1987, her parents Michalena (Kryzanowski) and Francis Lipka, her siblings John, Jean, Stanley, daughter-in-law Wendy, brothers-in-law Fr. Stan Slezak and Gabe Suwala as well as extended family and many friends. She is survived by her children, daughter Cathy (Don Kreuger) and son Michael, cherished grandsons Stephen (Kim), Jordan (Lyndsay) and Darren (Brigitte) Kreuger, sister Fran Borowski, brother Joe (Marge) Lipka, sisters-in-law Roma Lipka and Lorna Suwala, brother-in-law Archie Hackle and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Helen was born on the family farm near Fosston on September 26, 1928. She was the eldest of six children. Her parents worked hard to support the family and life on the farm. Helen was responsible to ensure the household chores and homework was done. She often referred to herself as the "bossy older sister." She was a good student, played the organ at church and went on to study nursing at St. Paul's Hospital in Saskatoon. She graduated in 1950 and worked in Saskatoon, as well as small rural hospitals in Wadena and Canora, before she decided to take a position in a doctor's office in Regina. Milton and Helen met in Glenavon and married on August 9, 1954. Life in Weyburn, with Milt's business Weyburn Sheet Metal Ltd., community and church activities, home life with children's activities, was busy. Helen was an excellent cook, loved making pies, cakes and Polish specialties. Helen was a marvellous hostess for family, friends and business gatherings both in Weyburn and at the cottage at Kenosee Lake. She was never shy to try new things for her personal interest, sewing, knitting, oil painting, golf, French lessons, line dancing, refinishing antiques and upholstery work. Helen gave of herself and was often found helping others with painting, yard work or making meals. She loved to putter in the yard and in her perennial garden with her prized peonies. In later years, she was often found at the front desk of the business. In 1983, the business was sold and Helen and Milt ventured into their retirement years. They travelled in the winter months to points in the southern U.S., golfed and played bridge with friends and spent much time at the cottage. When Milt passed away in 1987, Helen found herself to be a young widow. She soon took on the task of caregiver for her mother. She loved to socialize and had many friends to share her time. She travelled to Texas, Mexico, the Maritimes, California, and Rome. She was a devoted and very proud grandmother to three grandsons who spent much time with her in Weyburn and Kenosee Lake during the summer. In 2004, Helen was diagnosed with Alzheimer Disease. The journey down this road was often frustrating and concerning, and always changing. Shemoved to Regina to be closer to family and from there to a personal care home, then to Santa Maria Senior Citizens Home for her final three years. At a future date, Helen will be laid to rest beside her beloved Milton in the Weyburn Hillcrest Cemetery. The Family would like to thank all those who have cared for Helen and gave her support, love and many hugs. Flowers are graciously declined. Anyone wishing to do so may make a donation in Helen's name to the Kenosee Boys and Girls Camp, c/o Will & Edrina Sinclair, Box 307, Kenosee Lake SK S0C 2S0.
