Helen Novokshonoff of Grand Forks, B.C., passed away on October 22, 2011, surrounded by her loving children, grandchildren and great-granddaughter at the Castleview Care Centre. She was 92 years old. Helen was born on July 2, 1919, in Kamsack, Sask. to Peter and Lucy Demenoff.
Since 1936 Helen lived in Grand Forks. In 1939 she married Mike Novokshonoff and they were blessed with two children, a daughter, Vera and a son, Paul. They lived in a two-story home along the Kettle River in a community setting and raised their family. As she aged and required more care, she moved to Castlegar in 2007 to be closer to her daughter.
Helen loved to cook, socialize, welcome family and friends to her home, provide care and support to everyone who was in need and grow a garden. She was a talented singer, belonged to choirs and singing groups and traveled to many parts of Canada, the United States, Russia and Europe. She was a dedicated and life-long member of the Union of Spiritual Communities of Christ.
She will be dearly remembered by her daughter, Vera and Walter Kanigan of Castlegar; her son, Paul Novokshonoff of North Vancouver; her grandchildren: Jack of Vancouver, Robert and Marja of Oakville, Ontario, Maya and Dave Mossman of Vancouver; and her great-grandchildren: Kristian, Patrik, Markus and Bella.
Helen was predeceased by her beloved husband, Mike in 1986; both of her parents; her brothers, Peter and Philip; her in-laws and many dear friends and relatives.
The Kanigan and Novokshonoff family greatly appreciates the care given by Dr. Ankenbauer and the wonderful staff at the Castleview Care Centre. We also wish to thank the Hospice Volunteers and all the family and friends who visited and helped with her care during her illness the past few weeks.
A traditional Doukhobor prayer and memorial service was held on Thursday, October 27th at the USCC Grand Forks Community Centre. Sarah Greenwood of the Castlegar Funeral Chapel was entrusted with the arrangements. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made in Helen’s honor to USCC ISKRA Publication.
“Rest in Peace in God’s Heavenly Kingdom, our dear Mom and Baba.”