Kanigan, Helen
(October 23rd, 2017)
Helen Kanigan
A Celebration of the Life of Helen Kanigan
On October 15th, 2017, Helen Kanigan passed away peacefully in her 89th year, with family at her side.
Helen was born on July 3, 1929 in Winlaw BC, to Alex and Helen (Osachoff) Jmaeff. Helen had the grand experience of growing up with five lively brothers, Nick, Peter, Walter, Alec and Freddy, who took seriously their role of protecting her and teaching her life skills. Helen grew up in Blewett and started her working career in the Blewett General Store. In 1950 she married George Kanigan, and in 1952 they moved to Nelson where they raised 5 children: Wayne, Kim, Lori, Randy, and James. She spent most of her working life in the Hospitality Industry where she had the privilege of passing on her considerable supervisory and managerial skills to many of the coworkers she mentored.
Helen was an avid sportswoman. She enjoyed playing softball, curling, and golf, but her real love was Hockey. She was an avid Canucks fan to the last day of her life.
What Helen is most remembered for, are the countless people she helped in and out of the AA program to which she belonged for 46 years. To Helen, people mattered more than things, often putting their needs ahead of her own wishes. She worked tirelessly to provide encouragement, support, and practical help to whomever needed it.
Helen’s legacy lives on in her 5 children and 6 grandchildren; Amber, Brandy, Tanya, Katrina, Joel and Tyla Rae.
The Kanigan Family would like to thank Dr Moulson for his 35 years of dedicated care. We would also like to thank the Nelson Home Care Services for their love and support that allowed Helen to stay in her home as long as possible, and a special thanks to all the staff at Jubilee Manor for providing Helen with a loving and caring home these past 6 months.
A public service is being held today Friday October 20th @ 10:30 am at Thompson Funeral Home, with interment to follow at Nelson Cemetery. A tea will be held at Prestige Inn at 1:00. All family and friends are welcome.
Those wishing to make a donation in her honor to Jubilee Manor can do by mailing a cheque to the Nelson Jubilee Manor Foundation 500 Beasley St W, Nelson, BC V1L 6G9
