V. Helina (Helen) Nicholson
March 13, 1932 – June 10, 2016
Mom passed away peacefully on June 10 after a brief battle with Cancer that she refused to accept. Born March 13, 1932 in New Westminster, BC to Rudolf & Emma Vapaavuori, both immigrants from Findland. She was raised in Vancouver and graduated from John Oliver High School along with the Love of Her Life, Bob and their BFF’s (best friends forever) Maryanne and Kelly Hillman of Cobble Hill, BC and Bev and Ron Nielson, of Pt. Roberts, WA.
Mom was a talented Water Colour Artist and excelled in many mini careers throughout her lifetime. In 1964 the family moved to California where Mom found employment at the local Cadillac Dealership. After 10 years, she opened her own business applying Individual eye lashes to your own. lt was a success (and a pre-cursor to todays fashion world).
In 1976 they moved back to Canada and Salt Spring. Life included building their dream house with Bob and working at Mouats again with Dad. In 1986 “Breadwinners” was opened by Helen and daughter Lisa. A small Bakery/Luncheonette, it was a “Success” (and a lot of work). After 5 years the business was sold and Helen decided to be a fantastic Grandma and enjoy life with Bob and her feline friends.
Helen was predeceased by her husband, Bob, just 11 months ago (July 2015) and leaves behind her son Grant (Tina) in Florida, daughter Lisa (Tom) Butler-Cole of Saltspring, 5 grand children, Andrea (Jordan) Lowther, Amanda & Robbie Nicholson, Adam & Ian Butler-Cole and 6 Great Grandchildren: Jackson, Neil, Emmerson, Austin,Cyrus and Rayne.
The family thanks Dr. Beaver, Dr. Butcher, the staff at Eagleridge Clinic, the loving and caring nurses of Home Support, Lady Minto Hospital and it’s Paliative Care Unit and the Ladies of Hospice who sat with Mom when we could not.
No service by request, donations to the S.P.C.A. appreciated.
Rest in Peace Mom and Dad.