Obituary of Helen Emilie Derges

HELEN EMILIE (Ursaki) DERGES Helen Emilie (88) of Regina passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 26, 2012. She was born September 3, 1923 at Markinch, Saskatchewan. Helen was predeceased by her husband David, parents Henry and Otillie; brothers Edward, Victor and Frank; sisters-in-law Anne Ursaki and Emma Ursaki; brother-in-law Ron Pasker; niece Janet Goudge and great-niece Anne Hastings. Helen is survived by her son Allan (Gayla) Derges and their children Adam (Ashley), Jana and Ray; daughter Ruth (Gary) Harris and her daughters Erica, Alyne and Martine Francis; daughter Lois (Sid) VanDerVelden and children Lee (Ryan) and Karen (Jon). In addition she has seven great-grandchildren that she adored: Liam, Adyson, Jack, Fletcher, Sidney, Dexter and Grayson. Helen is also survived by her sisters Bertha (Art) Davis, Alma Pasker and brother Harold (Barbara) Ursaki; her sister and brother-in-law Ruth and Murray Fraser, many nieces, nephews and of course her many wonderful friends. Helen enjoyed a productive, cheerful and healthy life prior to a near fatal heart attack two years before her death. She struggled with losing her independence but made the best of her new home at Pioneer Village. Those who cared for her at Pioneer Village enjoyed and marveled at her participation with every event available - as much as her frail body could carry her. Nothing was ever impossible for her and she showed ingenuity in getting things just the way she wanted. She was tremendously organized and had a memory for dates and phone numbers; she was an outstanding and reliable resource. She kept her mind sharp by staying on top of current events and sports because it was important for her to engage in conversation as an active participant. Even up to the day she died she challenged herself with the jumble puzzle in the paper. Throughout her life, she loved to sing and participate in church and community choirs. She sang up until she moved to Pioneer Village in 2010 - always finding a way even when it was difficult for her. Her social activities were plentiful and she will be missed by many. A Celebration of Helens Life will be held at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1909 Ottawa Street on Saturday, March 3, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Lindsay Hognestad officiating. Flowers gratefully declined and friends so wishing may make a donation to Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1909 Ottawa Street, Regina, SK, S4P 1P7 or a charity of your choice. The family extends sincere appreciation to the staff on 3 East at Pioneer Village where she was taken care of with love and attention over the past two years. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.speersfuneralchapel.com