Surkan, Helen Irene
January 1, 1929 – January 21, 2014

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Helen on January 21, 2014 in Prince Albert, SK. Mom was born in Imperial, SK on January 1, 1929 to Archie and Reta Bowes (Tufts). At a young age she moved with her family to Turtleford, SK where she completed her high school education as a Governor General Award winner. She obtained her nursing degree from the University of Saskatchewan in 1951 and met a young intern at City Hospital who became the love of her life. They were married on June 16, 1951 and moved to Prince Albert to start their new life together. Mom paused her nursing profession to raise her 5 boys and to be a full time mom. She made time to volunteer with the PA Music Festival, Lions Band, Golf and Curling Club, duplicate bridge, school choirs, Watsonaires and played organ at Wesley United Church. Summers were spent with family at the cottage at Waskesiu Lake. She later worked as a nurse after the boys were raised. Helen was predeceased by her father and mother Archie and Reta Bowes; her brothers Doug, Alban and Don. She is survived by her loving husband Metro; her sons Michael (Virginia), David (Jean), Gordon (Suzanne), John (Vivian) and Peter (Ida); her brother Ken (Ruth) Bowes and grandchildren Vilija (Tyler), Aaron (Ashley), Sean, Laura, Jennifer (Scott), Robbie, Daniel, Neil, Nathan, Alanna (Ian), Megan (Scott) and Jason. Helen was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and friend whose radiant smile would put everyone at ease. She grew up with four brothers and five sons so it was no accident that she was a better athlete than most. Mom, you will be greatly missed and never forgotten. The family would like to thank the staff at Mont St. Joseph for the wonderful care she received during her stay there. A Memorial Service will be held at Gray's Funeral Chapel in the spring and will be announced at a later date. In lieu of other tributes, memorial donations can be made to a charity of donor’s choice. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.grays.ca. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Gray's Funeral Chapel, Drew Gray, Funeral Director (306-922-4729).