Helen Olga Fitzgerald

With much love and sadness, the family of Helen Olga Fitzgerald (née Gordon) announces her peaceful passing on September 13, 2026, in Red Deer, Alberta, at the age of 90.

Helen was born on July 4, 1936, on her parents’ farm near Turtleford, Saskatchewan. The baby girl of the family, she grew up with two older brothers and was surrounded by many relatives and family friends. Her father was a farmer, trapper and hunter, and a man who could fix just about anything. Her mother was a loving cook and gardener who always had a meal ready for visitors.

Helen lived with her family in Turtleford until 1954. After graduating from school, she moved to Montreal to join the Canadian military and fulfill her dream of seeing the world. While in Quebec, she met the love of her life, a handsome young fireman named Donald Thomas Fitzgerald. Together, they travelled, built a life and raised their family.

Helen was a humorous, fun-loving woman with an endless curiosity about the world. She loved to learn, to read, to share what she knew and to help wherever she could. During her lifetime, she learned five languages—some better than others—but she was never afraid to try. Living and travelling throughout Canada and Europe gave her the opportunity to immerse herself in different languages and cultures, something she cherished throughout her life. While living in Europe, she often welcomed strangers in need into her home and helped them navigate language and cultural barriers wherever possible.

As Helen’s five children grew, she ventured into the workforce, beginning with Avon and Tupperware sales. After moving to Red Deer in 1975, she managed the Tandy Leather store in West Park and later the Lewiscraft store in Bower Mall. She loved crafts but perhaps loved teaching others even more.

Helen was also a great believer in giving back. Whether volunteering for a charity, helping with Brownies or Girl Guides, or working bingos in support of numerous organizations, she felt a strong responsibility to contribute to her community. That community spirit also inspired her to learn more about her Norwegian and Swedish heritage. She was a proud member of the Sons of Norway and enjoyed her involvement with the Norwegian Laft Hus Society.

Music and dance were another great joy in Helen’s life. Whether traditional heritage dancing, square dancing or ballroom dancing, she loved the music, the movement and especially the costumes and traditions that surrounded them. Perhaps that was part of what drew her to her beloved Red Hatters—the camaraderie, the wonderful costumes, the sisterhood she truly cherished and the silly, joyful events that brought her so much happiness.

Helen loved to organize and was deeply committed to every group, cause and activity in which she became involved. A meticulous note-taker, record keeper and organizer, she was an ideal committee and board member and generously shared those talents with many of the organizations that were important to her.

Following Donald’s passing in 2002, Helen filled her retirement years with volunteering, dancing with local groups and continuing to help others whenever she could. Later in life, she was fortunate to meet a very special friend, Bob Brewer. They shared many interests and enjoyed travelling, playing cards and spending time with friends.

Over the last few years, Helen’s health declined with the onset of dementia, but Bob’s friendship, companionship and continued support remained steadfast until the end. On September 13, 2026, Helen passed away peacefully at Red Deer Regional Hospital.

Of all the adventures, travels, organizations, and experiences that filled Helen’s 90 years, she will be remembered most for her love and devotion to her family and friends. Those who knew her will carry many wonderful memories—and a smile when they think of her.

Helen is survived by her special friend, Bob Brewer; her three sons, Edward (Nicky), Darcy (Lila) and James; daughter-in-law Carole; grandchildren Kelly, Patrick, Leslee (Jason), Amber, TJ (Karin), Samuel, Amber (Patrick), Chase (Zachary), Heather (Tyler), Sean, Kaithey (Mathieu), Amy, Nathalie (Jay), Melanie (John), Derrick (Meghan), Christie, Lillian and Tiara; and 31 great-grandchildren.

Helen was predeceased by her husband, Donald Fitzgerald; her parents, Ellsworth and Hilma Gordon; her two brothers and sisters-in-law, Bruce (Evelyn) and Arthur (Phyllis); her beloved daughter, Cathi; her son, Robert; and her beloved grandson, Donnie.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Dr. Susan Konynenbelt and the staff at Aspen Ridge memory care. Special thanks are also extended to the Emergency Department and Unit 24 staff at Red Deer Regional Hospital for the loving care, compassion and dignity they provided Helen during her final days. We are forever grateful.

Helen, we felt your love. We will miss you dearly and carry you in our hearts forever.

• Date : 2026-09-13
• Location : Eventide Funeral Home