Taylor Alderwood, Helen (McGowan)
After 100 years of a life very well-lived, Helen died peacefully by the side of her two daughters, Wendy (Timms) and Cathi (Boutwell) on March 5, 2025 at Fairview Manor in Almonte, Ontario.
Over her long lifetime, Helen became an adored Nana/Megga to 7 grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren. Aside from family, Helen loved many things; knitting, the Blue Jays (especially Vladdy), travelling near and far, baking bread and sweets, Scrabble and cross-words (a proud champion at Fairview), reading, fishing, quilting, swimming, and puzzles.
After graduating high school in Iroquois, at the age of 15, two years early, Helen went to Business College in Brockville by the encouragement of her mother. Helen loved her long career as an office worker and bookkeeper, beginning at the Caldwell Linen Mill and expanding to construction companies and hotel management. She took great pleasure in putting people together, whether it was for jobs or relationships.
Helen “stirred the pot” for 100 years, by shocking friends and family with an unexpected joke and a wink. Always rooting for the underdog, she had a reputation for taking people under her wing, finding common ground with almost everyone she met. Her attitude toward life was like water off a duck’s back, small annoyances to big obstacles alike would be met with an “Oh hell!” and a swat of the hand. However, if being fussed over too intently, she would exclaim “Don’t bug me!”
Helen’s friendliness was her way to help make those around her feel seen and significant. Her achievements and confidence were equally matched with grounding humility and she always wanted you in on her shocking sayings and jokes.
As a guardian of 100 years of familial and personal history, Helen’s story-telling was an absolute joy to witness. Her tales about the molasses flood, Gangie, double dates with her sister and best friend, Bea (occasionally swapping dates), dancing at Casa Loma and working in Toronto in war time, would not only entertain, but also fill hearts.
The matriarch of all matriarchs – wise, empathetic, and assertive – she is now an honoured ancestor to her loving family who will miss her dearly while keeping her memory alive in their laughter, their faces, their hand-knit heirlooms and their hearts.
Helen was always appreciative of a helping hand from her family and the staff at Fairview. She would often refer to the healthcare workers as “her girls” who “took such good care” of her. Thank you to all the staff who, before, during and after the pandemic, made her time at Fairview a real, true home. Helen held Dr. Ray in high regard and always felt that she was very well taken care of. We cannot thank all of you enough for your compassion and help during Helen’s journey.
Family and Friends May Visit
C.R. Gamble Funeral Home & Chapel Inc.
(127 Church St., Almonte, ON. 613-256-3313)
On Saturday, March 15, 2025 from 1pm to 3pm. Chapel Service to follow visiting at 3pm with a reception to follow in the Gamble Reception Suites. Spring interment Iroquois Point Cemetery.
Condolences & Tributes: www.crgamble.com
