Helen May Zehr
Helen passed away peacefully on October 23, 2022 at the Winchester District Memorial Hospital in Winchester, Ontario, in her 98th year. She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 71 years, Delmer. Helen was born in Wilmot Township in the County of Waterloo on June 14, 1925, to Joseph Stere and Viola (Saddler) Stere. She left home at an early age to work in a woolen mill and then at the Kitchener hospital. She married Del in August 1947 and their journey through life took them to live in Cochrane, Timmins, Ottawa, Brampton and Winchester. Together they raised three children: Kent (Charlotte) of Calgary; Laura Tremblay of Acton, Ontario; and Nancy Torrance (John) of South Mountain, Ontario. Helen was blessed with eight grandchildren; Tymmarah, Jacob, Trisha, Mia, Jenny, Graham, Andrew and the late Christine as well as great-grandchildren; Eric, Veronica, Jake, Franki, Logan, Abigail, Lauren and Esme, as well as great-great-grandchild Steele. She is survived by two brothers, Clayton Stere and Arthur Stere, and by many nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind two ‘chosen’ and much-loved family members, Mary-Jo and Suzanne. Helen was a devoted wife and loving mother and grandmother. Throughout her life she was a creative needlewoman, fantastic cook and baker, active in her community and a true friend to many. Winding down her retirement years in Chesterville, Ontario, one of her greatest joys was staying in touch with her far-flung friends and family. In lieu of flowers, donations to Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada or the charity of your choice would be gratefully received. Arrangements entrusted to the Byers Funeral Home, South Mountain (613) 989-3836. Online condolences may be made at www.byersfuneralhomeinc.ca