Helen Elizabeth Corness of Courtenay, BC, passed away at her home of 30 years in the arms of her partner Wally Sundkvist on Wednesday morning August 19, 2020. Diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in May, she spent her last 4 months in the loving care of her daughter Arlene Olynyk (husband Ken), son Jeff and Wally.
Her choice to have medical assistance in her passing allowed her to participate in a living celebration of her life up until its end.
Helen's family was constantly with her either in person or via skype, including Arlene's daughter Jesse, husband Derek and son Henry (Helen's great grandson); daughter Maya and son Kelly; Helen's oldest son Jeff, his partner Kate and son Liam; Helen's younger son Greg, his wife Kristin and daughters Tarn and Zinnia; and Helen's second daughter Jacquie, her husband Mats and 3 children, Alexia, Anja, and Johan, as well with others who loved her, extended family and friends throughout America and Europe.
She leaves behind her brother Ernie Kobbert (Mildred), 4 children, 9 grandchildren, 1 great grandchild, and countless friends and family from all parts of the world. Helen travelled worldwide, gaining countless friendships while strengthening old family relationships.
Blessed during the last 12 years, Helen was able to share her love of travel and adventure with loving partner Wally and anyone the pair came across.
Helen was born on June 2, 1936 in Hines Creek, Alberta, the only daughter to Prussian immigrants Ernst and Ursula Kobbert whose farm, built from nothing, is still farmed by family on the banks of the Peace River.
After earning degrees in Geophysics and Psychology, she worked as a social worker, dedicating her life to child protection until retirement in 1990.
An outdoor enthusiast and painter, she was well loved and admired for the enthusiasm with which she regularly explored the world and Courtenay's countryside, often converting her reverence for its flora and fauna into paintings celebrating its extraordinary beauty.
Always loved and remembered; the Courtenay 'cottage' will not be the same without her.
Condolences may be offered at www.telfordtoneffboyd.ca
Telford Funeral Services