HELEN M. PETERSEN, (nee Vaselenak), beloved wife of the late Carlton “Dot” W. Petersen passed away peacefully at Extendicare in Lethbridge after a valiant effort for life on Tuesday, October 27th, 2009 at the age of 89 years.

Besides her husband passing away in 1998, Helen was predeceased by her brothers Leonard (L.M.) Vaselenak Sr., Albert Vaselenak, John (J.V.) Vaselenak, and Donald Vaselenak; one sister, Marie Vaselenak and one infant daughter in 1944.

She is survived by her sons, Lawrence “Larry” (Jolayne) of Lethbridge, Edwin “Ed” (Ellen) of Calgary, Wayne of Calgary and Glen (Kimberley) of Running Springs, California; one daughter, Lorraine Buchanan of Lethbridge; 12 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; one sister, Irene Hazuda of Lethbridge; sisters-in-law, Frances, Helen,

Gladys and Isolda Vaselenak; numerous nieces and nephews. Helen was born in Lethbridge on February 29, 1920 to Stefan and Mary Vaselenak. She accomplished much in her life, such as getting married in 1940 and raising 5 children. Her love of life and people touched the lives of all those who knew her, and our time with her was marvelous. She was a compassionate, thoughtful and honourable woman who loved her family and animal companions. Besides being a character and a half, she had a unique sense of humour and a quick wit, a wonderful personality and was full of laughter and the joy of life. Helen loved gardening and knitting, cooking for her family, especially short-bread cookies at Christmas, and was always ready to help someone in need.

A Service of Remembrance will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2800 - Mayor Magrath Drive S., Lethbridge on Monday, November 2nd, 2009 at 1:00 P.M., with Pastor Wayne Boersma officiating. Helen and Dot will be laid to rest in their infant daughter’s plot in Mountain View Cemetery, Lethbridge.

In memory of Helen, contributions may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation, Box 2211, Lethbridge, AB., T1J 4K7