Helen Plas

Helen "Lena" Plas 

June 19th, 1935 - January 27th, 2026

Helen (Lena) Plas passed away peacefully on January 27th, 2026, at the age of 90, with her children Valerie and Theresa, Theresa's son, Michael and daughter-in-law, Michelle, by her side.

Helen was born on June 19th, 1935, and was raised on a farm by her parents Mary and John Lemky. She is one of 10 children, 9 of whom have pre-deceased her ( Ben, Bill, Martin, George, Betty, Lillian, Elsie and Betty). She is survived by her sister Alma and her children (and families) Phyllis, Ted, Mary-Ann, Geraldine, Theresa, and Valerie.

As a young woman, eager to make her own way, Helen moved to Thunder Bay, Ontario where she worked as a waitress. There she met her husband, Tom. They married in Arden, Manitoba and began their family life in Pass Lake, Ontario. After several years they moved to Thunder Bay before eventually purchasing Helen's parents farm in Arden.

Helen was a devoted and hard-working wife and mother. By the age of 30, she and Tom had six children - five daughters and one son. She took great pride in caring for her family and home, always ensuring her children were well mannered, neatly dressed and well cared for. Her home was immaculate, her household duties completed to perfection, and every piece of clothing carefully ironed.

After the children had grown, Helen and Tom retired to Neepawa, Manitoba. Even in retirement Helen continued to keep busy, working with at Touchwood Park Residence. She was always giving generously of her time, helping her children with their families with babysitting and bringing her cleaning and organizational touches into their home.

Up until her passing, Helen remained active and productive. She continued cooking, baking and canning, making perogies, borscht, jams, pies, stews and countless other dishes. She believed strongly in staying active and often said, "You have to keep moving," a philosophy she lived by through walking, visiting, shopping and simply staying busy.

Helen had a sharp mind and a quick wit, often surprising others with her sense of humor. She adored her grandchildren and lit up whenever she was with them. After the passing of her husband Tom, Helen lived independently for 14 years, maintaining her strength, independence and social nature. A true social butterfly, she never hesitated to strike up a conversation with a stranger.

Helen will be dearly missed by her family, friends and all who had the pleasure of knowing her. She was a woman with a heart of gold and an abundance of love to give. One of her favorite sayings was, "Living is Giving," and she truly embodied those words.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that you make a donation to a charity of your choice,  In Helen's Memory.

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