February 28, 1945 – Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

March 9, 2025 – Calgary, Alberta

Helen English, beloved wife of David Cameron English, of Calgary, AB, passed away on Sunday, March 9, 2025, at the age of 80 years.

Helen was born in Saskatoon, SK, on February 28, 1945. In 1968, she graduated from the University of Saskatchewan with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. In the same year, she moved to Calgary and married Dave. They were married for 56 wonderful years and raised three sons. She was a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, and grandmother.

Helen accomplished much throughout her life and was particularly proud of her nursing career, not only as a nurse but in teaching and management. She earned a Master of Education, focused on Nursing Administration from Gonzaga University.

Her sharp wit and great sense of humour lit up every room she entered. In her younger years, she enjoyed dancing and cheerleading. As her focus shifted to her family, she enjoyed being at Emma Lake, SK, and Shuswap Lake, BC, where she visited and hosted many friends at the family cabins. Some of her fondest memories were made here. She was an avid bridge player, a member of book and theatre clubs and was an active member of the PEGG Women’s Club of Calgary.

Helen had a passion for travelling and exploring the world, notably India, China, Chile, Mexico, and many countries throughout Europe. Helen and Dave spent many winters in Arizona, with close friends.

Helen is survived by her loving husband Dave, her three sons, Brent (Agatha), Trevor (Dolores), and Jeff (Una); her granddaughters, Agustina, Camila and Lucia; her brother Bill (Wendy) and several brothers and sisters-in-law, Garth, Pat, Ken, and Kathy.

Helen was predeceased by her parents, Coleman and Daisy, her sister Marilyn, and her brother-in-law Jim.

A Celebration of Helen’s life will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, AB) on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. Reception to follow at the Canyon Meadows Golf and Country Club (12501 14 Street SW, Calgary, AB).

If friends so desire, and in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Operation Smile Canada, 375 University Ave Suite 204, Toronto, ON M5G 2J5, Telephone: (647) 696-0600, https://operationsmile.ca/.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Helen’s family here.

In living memory of Daisy English, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, AB T2X 3J3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.

Click to View the Memorial Card for Helen English