HELEN (ELENA) WELHAM (SOLAR)

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HELEN (ELENA) WELHAM
(nee SOLAR)
April 22, 1926 - August 6, 2021

Helen passed away comfortably, with a heart full of love, at the Selkirk Regional Health Centre in the later evening of Friday, August 6, 2021.
Helen was born at home on the family farm near Sifton, Manitoba to William and Katherine Solar. She was the fourth of seven children. Helen is predeceased by her adoring husband Ernest (Ernie), her beloved daughter Kathy, as well as all of her siblings. She is survived by her son, David, daughter-in-law Mary Anne, and granddaughters, Emma and Katie, all of whom will miss her more than words can say, as well as doting nieces and nephews including Ricky, Brenda, Rae, Bruce and Heather, as well as her dear friend Leona.
At the age of 18, Helen left the family farm to study Psychiatric Nursing at the Selkirk Mental Hospital, graduating in three years. In 1951, she married the love of her life, Ernie, to whom she was happily married for almost 57 years. Helen left nursing early in her career to take on the next stage of being a mom to her two children, a role that she performed with much love and happiness.
Helen found so much pleasure in attending Christ Church (Anglican) where she, with Ernie, was a member for her entire life in Selkirk. Never one to just stand by when something needed doing, she joined the choir, helped with the catering of church events, church services and church greetings. Helen and Ernie were also proud members of the Selkirk Legion, serving on various committees, especially the Over 60 Club. She adored volunteering at the Selkirk Art Centre with her close friends.
Helen had many passions which she shared with her family in her long life. She spent hours in her immaculate yard and garden expertly tending to flowers and vegetables. Curling was her sport; dancing was her charm. She relished the casino trips with the gang where she could bet the house and always came home up a few dollars. She adored holiday times spent with family and friends. Everyone was always welcome at Ernie and Helen's when they dropped by for a visit, and they were always glad to receive guests and have a laugh or three.
Helen's true talent was her ability to make friends, which she did at every stage of her life. She was fun, dedicated, giving, and always loyal. Those qualities made her a wonderful mom, a devoted grandmother, an exceptional wife, and a fabulous aunt, and an incredible friend. Her generous soul will live on in everyone she leaves behind. Our lives are richer in having shared life with Helen.

May you rest peacefully, Mom.

Helen's funeral service will be held at Gilbart Funeral Home, 309 Eveline Street, Selkirk, MB on Tuesday, August 17 at 11:00 a.m., followed by a reception.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Christ Church of Selkirk or the Selkirk Community Foundation.
Due to COVID restrictions, seating is limited to 100 people. Please call 204-482-3076 if you wish to reserve a spot. The service will also be live-streamed via a link on the Gilbart Funeral Home website.

Condolences may be left on her tribute wall
at www.gilbartfuneralhome.com

Gilbart Funeral Home, Selkirk
in care of arrangements.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 14, 2021