Margaret JANE Helmer

In loving memory of Jane Helmer, of Calgary, AB, who passed away peacefully on June 13, 2025, at 76 years. She was a loving daughter, sister, aunt, cousin and friend to many and will be missed by all who knew her.

Jane was survived by her sister, Patti (Sid), brother Hugh (Verna), brother-in-law Lloyd, her nieces and nephews, Joanne (Greg), Todd (Tracy), Shawn (Tanya), Cheryl (Jim), Tracy (Vince) Chris (Robin), Travis, Amanda (David), nine great nieces and nephews, five great, great nieces and nephews with one more arriving soon and cousins in Ontario.

She was predeceased by her parents Helen and Ernie, sister Judy, her niece Janice and her brother David.

Jane was born February 9, 1949, in Ottawa, ON and moved to Calgary when she was 3 years old. She met each chapter of her life with grace, enthusiasm, and a bright spirit. She lived in Parkdale with her family and attended special classes at King George Elementary school. Jane enjoyed family gatherings, celebrations and especially enjoyed time with the young kids and babies. Jane was proud to graduate from the Independent Living Program through the Vocational Rehabilitation and Research Institute (VRRI) and having gained the necessary life skills to live independently. She moved into a group home in 1983. After her father’s death in 1985 she moved home to be with her mother, Helen, and in 2006 they both moved to Millrise Seniors Village.

Jane began receiving services from the VRRI in 1969 and was among the first individuals to be supported by the newly formed organization. VRRI, now known as Vecova, provided Jane with many enriching experiences that helped her throughout her life. In February 1975, Jane began receiving residential and community services through VRRI and explored a variety of work opportunities (janitorial and bottle depot services, outdoor horticulture and restaurant work, Wendy’s being her favorite). When Jane retired, she had worked for many years at the University of Calgary in the recycling services department. Jane also gave back to her community by volunteering at the Shawnessy YMCA, folding towels and cleaning gym equipment. During her many years at Millrise, she continued to receive support from Vecova every week. Thank you to all the Vecova staff, especially Tara, Anna, Tobi-Lynne, Josie and Funmi.

Jane was very physically active in her youth and enjoyed bike riding, swimming and being outdoors. Jane bowled in a weekly league for many years, where she got the nickname “JJ” from all her friends. She was a proud member of the Calgary Special Olympic team from 1980 to the early 2000’s competing on the competitive swim team, the synchronized swim team, and both five and ten-pin bowling teams. Jane never missed practice or the chance to compete. She went to competitions in Alberta, British Columbia, Nova Scotia and even to Baton Rouge and San Diego. Winning many ribbons, medals and trophies she celebrated her accomplishments with pride.

In September of 2001 Jane was on stage with Terri Clark during the Canadian Country Music Awards at the Saddledome. Terri sang NO FEAR which won Video of the Year featuring Special Olympians. Although Jane was not in the video she stood right behind Terri on the stage and got her picture taken with her afterwards.

Jane was a talented artist and enjoyed her years at the Indefinite Arts Centre, now known as the National accessArts Centre (NaAC). From 2011 to 2024 she showcased her creativity by finishing numerous fiber art, painting, ceramic, needlecraft and sewing projects, all while spending quality time with her friends. Thank you to Heather, Kylie and all the staff at NaAC.

Jane always looked forward to her weekly visits with companion Diane that started in 2022. They played cards, read stories, laughed and enjoyed coffee and a treat that Diane brought. Thank you, Diane, for being such a wonderful friend to Jane, Patti and Sid.

Jane loved to watch sports on TV, mainly baseball, football but especially hockey. She was an avid Calgary Flames fan, and you knew it was game day as she always wore her jersey. If they lost, she would say “I guess I wasn’t cheering loud enough”.

Jane lived in Millrise Seniors Village for over 19 years, and she loved every minute of her time there. Jane was fondly called “Princess” by the staff, which made her smile proudly. She enjoyed all the activities and outings that Millrise offered. Jane was known as a likeable, fun-loving person, always up for a good time, dancing, singing, attending parties, and sharing joyful moments. She never missed a happy hour, party or a bingo game and was always happy to call her brother-in-law Sid and report her winnings. If she didn’t win, she would say “Can’t win them all, maybe next time”. Her creative talent was also displayed at Millrise, where she participated in craft, art and painting workshops. She had a natural way with children and enjoyed visits with the kids from the local school and daycare. She formed close and loving bonds with the staff and residents over the years. The loving care she received from all the staff, nurses, aides, volunteers, and AHS staff was beyond excellent. Thank you to the wonderful people at Millrise who made a safe, comfortable and welcoming home for Jane.

Jane was widely known as a kind, pleasant, caring, and responsible person. She will be fondly remembered for her happy warmth, sense of humor, creativity, and love for life.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Millrise Seniors Village, 14911 – 5 Street, SW, Calgary, AB on Monday, July 21, 2025 from 1:30 PM to 3:30PM. Parking is available at the Covenant Christian Reformed Church at the top of the hill on the corner of Millrise Blvd and 148th Avenue.