Helen Bihun (nee Mistal} passed away peacefully in her sleep on December 23, 2023. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great- grandmother, great-great-grandmother, sister, and friend.
Helen was born near Ethelbert, Manitoba on July 10, 1919. She grew up area near Sifton, Manitoba as the eldest of nine siblings. She had a strong work ethic and a cheerful spirit from a young age. She met the love of her life, Fred Bihun, at 16 years old, when they were both working on a neighbouring farm. They were married on February 14, 1937,
Leaving farm life behind, they moved to Winnipeg. Their family grew to include three daughters and three sons. They had many adventures together.
In 1967, Helen and Fred moved to Qualicum Bay, B.C. and ran Green Gables Resort, a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. They offered cabins and boats to rent, a small grocery store and gasoline bar.
Helen faced many challenges in her life, but never lost her faith or her optimism. In 1971, tragedy struck when she lost her husband and eldest son in a boating accident. Two years later, Helen lost her middle son in a car accident.
Helen moved to Parksville in 1974. She was active in the Parksville Legion and made many new friends. They introduced her to Reno, Nevada. She travelled there innumerable times, on bus trips and by air. She knew every Casino, where to get the best exchange rate on Canadian money and the best-value restaurants. Helen worked many years at Sea Edge Motel in Parksville, earning the respect and admiration of her colleagues and guests.
In 1989, Helen moved to Vancouver to be closer to her youngest daughter, Patti. Helen was an avid Bingo player, making more friends and supporting many charities. With a failing memory at the age of ninety-seven, in 2016, Helen moved to Royal Arch Masonic Home, where she quickly became a favourite resident with the staff. She charmed everyone with her sweet, gentle, and quiet disposition.
Helen is predeceased by her husband Fred, sons Ron and Jerry, daughter Judy (Nadia), sons-in-law Rod and Don, and grandson Alan. Helen is survived by one sister, Marie, son Fred (Lynn), daughters Shirley and
Patricia, fifteen grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandson. Helen will be missed, as will her delicious perogies and famous chocolate chip cookies.
A Celebration of Helen’s life will be held in the summer of 2024. Helen requested her final resting place be with her son, Jerry, in Qualicum Beach.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Kidney Foundation, the Alzheimer’s Society, or a charity of your choice.
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