Moses, Helen passed away June 29, 2010 at the Vulcan Community Health Centre at the age of 92 years.
Helen was born February 22, 1918 at Manyberries, Alberta to William and Cecylia Dutka. She moved to Champion in 1948 to marry George Moses. With her husband, Helen bought Champion Sundries in 1949 and that store continued to be a well-known fixture on Champion’s main street for the next 30 years. George and Helen also operated a general insurance agency and an Alberta Treasury Branch agency during the 1960s. After George passed away in 1970, Helen continued to manage the store until she retired in 1979. In retirement, Helen enjoyed visiting with family and friends including the Past Matrons and the Merry Widows. She was always excited when her grandchildren phoned or visited. Helen appreciated the support of her friends, neighbors and Home Care that enabled her to reside in her home at Champion until she was hospitalized in May 2010.
An important part of Helen’s life began with her enlistment in the Canadian Women’s Army Corps in 1941. She was with the first group of Alberta women to join the service. It was an exciting time for Helen, with postings in wartime London and close behind the front-lines in Europe. Helen, nicknamed Ducky by her army friends, maintained close contact with veterans from the CWAC. She had many exciting and sad stories to tell about her time in the CWAC. Helen attended annual reunions for over 50 years following the end of World War II.
Helen is survived by her son Bill (Donna) of Claresholm, three grandchildren Stephen, Victoria, Donald, two brothers, Peter (Doris) Dutka of Edmonton and Ed Dutka of Calgary and numerous nieces and nephews.
Helen is predeceased by her husband George, father William and mother Cecylia, two brothers Adam and Martin and two sisters Jessie and Almira.
Memorial gathering will be held Monday, July 5, 2010 at 2:00 pm at Champion Community Hall.
Private Family Interment Champion Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, tributes in Helen’s name can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, 200 Manning Road NE, Calgary, T2E 2P5.
Arrangements in care of Vulcan Funeral Home. Telephone 1-403-485-2633. E-mail condolences at www.vulcanfuneralhome.ca.
Bill and family – my deepest sympathies on the loss of your mom. I am Almira’s oldest daughter and I had not seen Auntie Helen for many years but did think of her often. It is a shame our families did not keep in touch. I see by her picture that she looked real good. Uncle Eddie was and still is very upset. Take care all.
Tink and family
Dear Bill and family. So sorry to hear of the loss of your mother. I know she and my parents ( Ken and Elsie Bloxham)
were long time friends. I remember her as a very gracious lady.To have stayed in her own home as long as she did was
remarkable.
Deepest sympathy,
Penny Mink
Dear Bill and family,
Sincere condolences on the passing of your mother. Thank you so much for letting me know, and I