Helen Jones (‘nee Sopkow)

It is with deep sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Helen Jones (née Sopkow) on May 21, 2026, just days after celebrating her 92nd birthday.

Helen was born on May 17, 1934, in Ksituan, Alberta, to Nicholas and Lena Sopkow. She was the third oldest of nine children and the first daughter in a close-knit, loving family. Life growing up on the family farm was not always easy, but it gave her a strong foundation and taught her the importance of family, community, neighbours, and working together. From an early age, she learned the value of hard work, helping care for her younger siblings while developing practical skills such as cooking, canning, and berry picking lessons that stayed with her throughout her life.

Though she later made her home in Edmonton, Helen never lost her deep connection to her roots. The farm and the community where she was raised always held a special place in her heart, and she treasured every opportunity to return home to visit family and friends and reconnect with the people and places that shaped her life.

In 1952, Helen moved to Edmonton, where she began her career, married, and built a life centered on family. She was a devoted mother to her three children, Arlene, Arthur, and Trevor, and took great pride in the family she raised. Life brought its share of challenges, which she met with courage and resilience. She remained a strong, independent woman while always staying deeply devoted to her family.

Helen was always ready for a family gathering, community event, celebration, or outing. She formed many lasting friendships and was known for her kindness, warmth, generosity, and willingness to help others whenever she could.

Admired for her classy style, warm smile, and striking blue eyes, Helen had a quiet way of making people feel welcome. She loved opening her home to family and friends, where many good conversations and memories were shared over a good cup of coffee and her homemade baking, which she generously shared and which everyone always looked forward to. She would never show up empty-handed, and her thoughtful treats were a much-loved part of every gathering. She also spent time golfing, bowling, crafting, and trying her luck at the casino. Above all, she valued time with her loved ones, who were the center of her world.

Helen was predeceased by her beloved son, Arthur; her parents, Nicholas and Lena Sopkow; and her siblings Julian, Sidney, Ruth, Steve, and Emil.

She leaves to cherish her memory her daughter Arlene; her son Trevor; her granddaughters Heather Ross and Madison Gilders; her grandson Tyler Ross (Robyn); her great-granddaughter Etta; her siblings Mary (Ed) Pierog, John (Gail) Sopkow, Victor (Arlene) Sopkow, and sister-in-law Betty Sopkow; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

Family was Helen’s greatest joy. The love she shared, the traditions she passed down, and the memories she created will be treasured always by those who knew her.

The family would like to thank the caregivers and staff who provided Helen with compassionate care and support in her final years.

Though she is no longer with us, Helen’s legacy of love, kindness, friendship, resilience, and devotion to family will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.