Helena Julia Szkambara of Duchess passed away in Brooks on December 22nd, 2008 at the age of 68 years. Born in Zadwicze, Poland on September 19th, 1940 she received her professional cooking and seamstress training there. She married Sam Szkambara in Poland on March 4th, 1962 later moving to Hinton, Alberta. Helena worked at the Forest Technology School in Hinton, until their move to Duchess in 1994. She loved spending time with her grandchildren and volunteering at a variety of community organizations. Helena was involved with St. Mary’s Church, singing in the choir and as a member of the CWL. She had an outgoing nature and loved being with people, participating in many seniors groups. Helena will be remembered as living a faith filled life of service to church and community. She was predeceased by her husband Sam in 2005 and parents Michal and Anna Brzezanski. Helena is survived by granddaughter Quinn; grandsons Garrett and Liam; children Irene (Gary); special friend Henry Dyck; brothers Wladyslaw (Maryszo) Brzezanski, Karol (Mila) Brzezanski, Tadeusz Brzezanski and their families. Funeral Mass was celebrated on Wednesday, December 31st at 10:30 AM from St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Rev. Avinash Colaco Celebrant. Active Pallbearers were Bruce Musgrove, Bert Peeters, Will Henrickson, Albert Henrickson, Tim Henrickson and Jim Neely. Interment followed at Brooks Cemetery.In memory of Helena, if friends desire, memorial tributes may be made to Juvenile Diabetes Foundation International, Calgary Chapter, #417 5920-1A Street S.W., Calgary, Alberta T2H 0G3. Arrangements in care of SMITH FUNERAL HOME. Telephone 403-362-4636 or Toll Free (866) 362-4652.
