Helen Isobel West

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Helen Isobel West (nee Murray) of Vernon, BC. Born on May 29, 1931, in St. Thomas, Ontario to Helen and Archibald Murray, she grew up in Hamilton Ontario. Helen spent her final days surrounded by loved ones, feeling their presence deeply.

Affectionately known as Gramma, she was a woman of quiet strength, deep compassion, and unwavering love for her family and friends. She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 72 years, Laurie West on January 17, 2025 and beloved daughter-in-law Sharon West on January 15, 2023

Growing up in The Salvation Army, Helen’s church life kept her busy and closely connected to her community. She enjoyed walking her dogs, hiking, swimming, cross country skiing, sewing, knitting, crocheting and most of all travelling. She set a great example of health and fitness for her family and was an inspiring role model. Helen also loved a good movie, her favourite was ‘Tea with Mussolini’.

In 1950, Helen traveled to England aboard the Queen Elizabeth, where she met her future husband while attending a Salvation Army corp in England. He later followed her back to Canada and they were married in 1951.

Helen spent much of her working career in healthcare and eventually retired as Assistant to the Medical Director of Ortho Pharmaceuticals in Don Mills, Ontario.

Helen had a special place in her heart for her entire family, extended family and cherished friends.

She leaves to cherish her memory her 4 children.

Daughters: Kathy (Kevin), Karen (grandson’s Mitch, Wes, Spence (Breanna), Liam (Alyssa).

Sons: Paul (grandchildren Jennifer (Jeremy), Andrew (Sarah). Ron (grandson Zachary).

Those that also occupied a special place in her heart were her great grandchildren, Conner, Kaeden & Callen, Landon & Harlow, Sebastian and Vaeda along with the Strong-Females that honour our family with their grace including Anna and Mackenzie.

Her capacity for love extended far beyond formal ties; she leaves behind Terry, Lisa and Frank who, though no longer partners in name, were always family in her eyes.

A heartfelt thank you goes to her adopted grand-daughter Anna Bosanac, for being by her side in her final years and supporting her with loving kindness as she transitioned to her new journey.

Whether she was baking a pie or exploring new corners of the world, she lived with passion for life. Yet, no matter where life took her or what adventure she was on, her greatest joy was always found in the time she spent with her family. Helen lived for her family until the very end, a true reflection of her resilience, determination, and deep purpose in keeping family ties strong. She was fortunate in living a long life and was able to have so many generations of family to love. Despite ongoing health challenges, she met each day with quiet grace and never complained.

Those who knew Helen will remember her as sharp, loyal, and loving. She loved to talk about her travels and was excited to share her excitement with those that were embarking on their own travels. She poured herself into the lives of those she loved.

Her legacy lives on in the stories, laughter, and love shared by those who were lucky enough to know her. Helen showed us the quiet power of living authentically and loving fiercely, and facing life’s challenges with courage.

Honouring her wishes, no formal service will be held. A celebration of life is planned for spring in Ontario, with details to follow.

In lieu of flowers, Helen asked that we honour her memory by moving through the coming months with greater awareness and compassion, offering kindness to those who are struggling and trusting that love, when given with humility and presence, has the power to restore the spirit.

Helen spent much of her working career in healthcare and eventually retired as Assistant to the Medical Director of Ortho Pharmaceuticals in Don Mills, Ontario.

Helen had a special place in her heart for her entire family, extended family and cherished friends.

She leaves to cherish her memory her 4 children.

Daughters: Kathy (Kevin), Karen (grandson’s Mitch, Wes, Spence (Breanna), Liam (Alyssa).

Sons: Paul (grandchildren Jennifer (Jeremy), Andrew (Sarah). Ron (grandson Zachary).

Those that also occupied a special place in her heart were her great grandchildren, Conner, Kaeden & Callen, Landon & Harlow, Sebastian and Vaeda along with the Strong-Females that honour our family with their grace including Anna and Mackenzie.

Her capacity for love extended far beyond formal ties; she leaves behind Terry, Lisa and Frank who, though no longer partners in name, were always family in her eyes.

A heartfelt thank you goes to her adopted grand-daughter Anna Bosanac, for being by her side in her final years and supporting her with loving kindness as she transitioned to her new journey.

Whether she was baking a pie or exploring new corners of the world, she lived with passion for life. Yet, no matter where life took her or what adventure she was on, her greatest joy was always found in the time she spent with her family. Helen lived for her family until the very end, a true reflection of her resilience, determination, and deep purpose in keeping family ties strong. She was fortunate in living a long life and was able to have so many generations of family to love. Despite ongoing health challenges, she met each day with quiet grace and never complained.

Those who knew Helen will remember her as sharp, loyal, and loving. She loved to talk about her travels and was excited to share her excitement with those that were embarking on their own travels. She poured herself into the lives of those she loved.

Her legacy lives on in the stories, laughter, and love shared by those who were lucky enough to know her. Helen showed us the quiet power of living authentically and loving fiercely, and facing life’s challenges with courage.

Honouring her wishes, no formal service will be held. A celebration of life is planned for spring in Ontario, with details to follow.

In lieu of flowers, Helen asked that we honour her memory by moving through the coming months with greater awareness and compassion, offering kindness to those who are struggling and trusting that love, when given with humility and presence, has the power to restore the spirit.

For those who wish to share condolences, memories, or messages of love, you are invited to do so on Helen’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/helen.west.104 where her family and friends will continue to find comfort in your messages, memories and photos.

Funeral arrangements are with Cypress Funeral Home, Vernon, BC. You may also leave condolences on their website if you are unable to post on Facebook. [email protected]

With love and gratitude, we her family, will carry her memory in our hearts forever.

Arrangements entrusted to

Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services 250-558-0866

Condolences may be expressed to the family by phone or email through Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services: