HELEN FLATT

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HELEN FLATT (Nee LUTY) September 29, 1914 - August 29, 2016 After a life well lived, the matriarch of our family has passed away. Our mother Helen was one month short of reaching 102 years of age and until a recent decline in health, was still taking part in some activities. She was predeceased by her parents, Nicolas and Frances Luty; her husband George; grandson Kurt; brothers, Julius and Jerry; and sisters, Lucy, Rosie and Mary. Helen is survived by her son Raymond (Vina); daughter Judy (Art) McGifford; grandchildren, Darrell, Coral (Steve) and Laura (Jim); brothers, Andy (Mary) and Constantine (Belva); seven great-grandchildren; 10 great-great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Helen was born in Winnipeg and as a child moved with her family to Zbaraz, MB. Not keen on farming, at the age of 16 she moved back to Winnipeg for employment. She met George at a dance and was married in April, 1936. Helen stayed home to raise their two children, Raymond and Judy. She was an accomplished seamstress and when her children were older she worked at several bridal shops doing alterations. She loved music and started taking mandolin and violin lessons. She taught herself to play the accordion. Music was a huge part of family gatherings. In fact, she was listening to old time music played by family musicians when she left us. Helen also loved playing cards and there were many serious games of canasta played over the years. Helen was very proud when she and George started the Henderson Mixed Bowling League which grew to all 20 lanes being used at Rossmere Lanes. She later bowled in a senior's league until she was 89. She was active in Eager Beavers Seniors, and Bergen Hall activities, especially enjoying her box garden and the "apple juice club". Helen was also a member of Grace Lutheran Church. We would like to thank Pastor Bruce Gelhorn and Pastor Don Engel for their care and guidance and also thank the caring staff at Maples PCH where Mom resided for eight years and for the compassion shown to Helen and her family in her final days. Interment will be held on Saturday, September 24 at 11:15 a.m. at Elmwood Cemetery, followed by a memorial service at 12:00 p.m. in the chapel of Voyage Funeral Home, 220 Hespeler Ave. at Henderson Hwy., with Pastor Don Engel officiating. Flowers gratefully declined. If friends so desire, a donation may be made to a charity of your choice. www.voyagefuneralhome.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 03, 2016