Obituary of Helena Aleida Den Boer (nee Van Reine)

June 8, 1928 - The Hague, Netherlands
January 6, 2024 - Calgary, Alberta

Helen den Boer of Calgary, AB, passed away on Saturday, January 6, 2024 at the age of 95 years.

Besides her loving husband Johannes C. den Boer (Hans), Helen is survived by her two sons, Lennert (Calgary, AB), Mark (Vancouver, BC); daughter, Claudia (Wheatley, ON); four grandchildren, James, Matthew, Leanne, Megan; and her three great-grandchildren, Jubilee, Phinehas, Verse. Helen is also survived by her brother’s son and daughter, Herman and Nell van Reine, and their children, as well as Helen’s extended family in Holland. Helen was predeceased by her parents, Annie van Reine and Herman van Reine and her sister Hermie van Reine. Her brother, Albert (Ab) van Reine of den Haag, Holland, with whom Helen enjoyed a very close life-long relationship, passed away shortly after Helen on Thursday, January 11, 2024, at the age of 93 years.

Helen was born on June 8, 1928, in The Hague, Holland. Hans and she emigrated to Canada in 1957. Throughout her life, Helen actively participated in various organizations, including Riverview United Church (Living Spirit), Skyline Hikers Club, and the Elbow Spring Golf Club. She also volunteered with Meals on Wheels, Healing Touch, and the Riverview United Church (Living Spirit). Helen had a wide range of interests, including music, singing, reading, bridge, hiking, x-country skiing, and traveling. However, her greatest source of pride was her children. One of her most cherished memories was the family vacation she had in Orillia, ON, in 2011. Above all, Helen will always be remembered for her exceptional kindness, empathy, and unwavering desire to help others.

A Celebration of Life will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB) on Friday, January 12, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the Funeral Home. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Helen’s family here.

The family would like to thank the staff of RockyView General Hospital for all their efforts on Helen's behalf, their attentiveness, and sensitivity.

If friends so desire, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your favourite Charity in Helena’s name.

In living memory of Helen den Boer, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2X 3J3, Telephone: 403-243-8200.