Becklund, Helen E August 4, 1916 - October 8, 2009 Helen Elizabeth Becklund passed away with her family by her side on October 8, 2009, in Stettler at the age of 93. Helen is survived by her loving family: son, Don (Lynda) Becklund, daughter, Sharon (Colin) Jeffares, son, Dennis (Judy) Becklund: six grandchildren; Kim Becklund, Patrick Becklund, Tara Hanson, Stacey (Kevin) Lodewyk, Grant (Kathy) Becklund, Adam Becklund: eight great grandchildren; Colby Becklund, Tanner Becklund, Riley Becklund, Kalee Lodewyk, Jory Lodewyk, Gabriel Becklund, Ravynn Becklund, Navaya Dykstra-Becklund: sister, Gert Scollan and sisters-in-law, Ruth Curry, Esther Turnbull, Marion Savage. Helen was predeceased by her parents, Oswald and Mary Savage, by parents-in-law, George and Alma Becklund, by her husband, John Becklund in 1995, by brother, Lawrence Savage, by sister, Doris Scheibel and by brothers-in-law Fred Scheibel , Mason Turnbull, and George Scollan. Helen was born in Youngstown, Alberta growing up on a farm and attending prairie schools. She began work cooking for threshing crews on an irrigation farm with John near Duchess. John and Helen were married September 9, 1939 at Brooks. They moved to Hanna in 1940 where son, Don was born in 1941.Their move to Stettler in 1944, became home to Sharon born in 1946 and to Dennis born in 1952. Helen was busy with the kids, cooking, cleaning and gardening in her early married life. In 1954, she joined the Royal Purple Lodge and held the head office in the local chapter in 1958-59 and in 1961-62. Helen received life membership in 1981 and remained an active member for over 50 years with 41 years perfect attendance. She belonged to the United Church Women (UCW) baking pies and serving dinner to Rotarians for 12 years. She continued as convener of a UCW group for 13 years before retiring in 1981 after 25 years of service. While giving to the community, she saw her children through their educational and career pursuits, and Helen embraced new members to the family. Helen enjoyed sewing and was quite happy with her little Singer machine as she industriously produced graduation, bridesmaid and wedding gowns. She opened her home to board teachers and students over a span of 11 years. Many still fondly recall her warm hospitality and great home cooking. Helen always had time for her grand-children creating a special tie to each of them. In turn, she welcomed her great grandchildren with open arms and experienced much joy with the new arrivals. Having a bit of a green thumb, she and John kept busy with gardening and both took pleasure in summer camping trips. She found time to pursue some personal interests with the Naturalists and the Trailer Club while connecting to a wide circle of friends and family. She chose to make Heart Haven Lodge her home in 2000 enjoying all the social activities and perfecting her shuffleboard skills. Many of her friends moved with her to Pine Ridge where they continued to challenge Helen the champ. Helen was active at Pine Ridge where she resided the past nine month until her passing. Her friendship, positive attitude and sense of humor will be missed. Her family is so appreciative of the care she was given by Dr. Lockhat and by staff for their compassionate care at both Heart Haven and Pine Ridge. A Celebration of Helen's life was held at the Stettler United Church on Wednesday October 14, 2009 with the Rev. Mervyn Penfound officiating. As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice in care of Brennen Funeral Home and Cremation Services P.O. Box 193 Stettler, Alberta TOC 2LO who were entrusted with the care and arrangements. Condolences may be e-mailed to brennenf@telusplanet.net. 403-742-3315