In Memory of Colin Ian Helsby
With sadness and a sense of loss, we announce the passing of Colin Ian Helsby on Monday, August 28, 2023.
Colin lost his wife, Edie Helsby, in August 2019, after 54 years in a loving marriage.
He will be so missed by his son Scott Helsby, his daughter Catharine Helsby, son-in-law Rick Goldsmith and grandchildren Emily and Nicholas Helsby-Goldsmith.
Colin was the youngest of 3 children of Alfred and Molly Helsby. Although Colin’s sisters, Rhoda (Harold) and Marie (Stan), passed away a few years ago, he will be missed by his brothers and sisters-in-law, his cousins, nieces and nephews on both sides of the family, and his friends.
The family will receive relatives and friends at Heritage Funeral Complex, 1250 Trim Road, Ottawa (Orléans), on Saturday, September 16th, 2023 from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. A remembrance service will follow in the Heritage Chapel at 11 a.m.
Online condolences may be shared at: www.heritagefh.ca
Our sincerest condolences and much love to you all. From Heather: I’ll always remember Colin as a warm and interesting “friend dad” with a quick wit and very kind heart. He and Edie left us all a legacy – the example of love and life well lived that we can learn from. xo
Rosarii and I have fond memories of many dinners and drinks with Edie and Colin..always fun evening with a wee scotch or two.
We also had a wonderful trip to Newfoundland together.
RIP , Colin , you and Edie enjoy that heavenly scotch.
Rosario and Don
To the Helsby family:
Colin will certainly be missed. He was a very kind and gentle person and always had a story. He was part of the James family for many many years.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Catharine, Rick & family,
We were very sorry to hear of your loss. We hope that gathering with friends and family to share fond memories will help you though this difficult time. We are keeping you in our prayers!
Michael & Janet Mavis
Our deepest sympathies to you, Catharine and Scott and to the rest of your family, on the grievous loss of your much loved father and grandfather, Colin. We have many fond memories of your Mom and Dad and our times together over the years in Winnipeg, Cold Lake, and, finally, here in Ottawa. We will mis them both.
Please accept our apologies and regret at not being able to attend the remembrance services as we will be away over that time.
Scott and Catherine:
Your Dad and I first met at RMC and after grad began our careers in the RCAF as Flying Instructors in Gimli.,Man. Many fond memories of flying, mess life and raising young families during those 4 years. I will remember Colin’s sense of humour and dry wit.
My condolences to you both .
Gordon Diamond
Catherine and Scott,
We are so very sorry to hear of the passing of your dad. Colin was dad’s best man and no matter where your dad’s work took him, my parents always managed to keep in touch. Our parents ( Rob & Bard Lusher) would take us to visit your family, at the various bases across Canada, when we were on summer vacation. We also enjoyed your family visits, when you came to St. Thomas, for Christmas and summer holidays with your grandparents. Please know that he had many friends that will miss him dearly.