Associate Professor Emerita Helen Elfert passed away in the early hours of December 21st, 2024, the first day of the winter solstice. As you likely know, the winter solstice is the day that embodies a moment of transition—a shift from darkness to light. Trust Helen to choose this time to make her departure!
December 23, 2024
Linda Leonard was with Helen, almost non-stop, during the past few days as she made her final journey from this life. It was a gradual and gentle passing at 3:35am at Purdy Pavilion where she received palliative care by their staff members. During the past 23 months, as a resident at Purdy, Helen became part of a small network of caring fellow residents who looked out for one another. In her last days, they gathered outside her door and sang two Christmas carols. This brought a smile to her face. They too feel the impending and actual loss of one of their own: the atmosphere on the unit has been sombre and reflective this past week.
Helen taught at the UBC School of Nursing for a number years, having come from McGill via Calgary and Toronto and retired as an Associate Professor Emerita. She was 93 and predeceased 2 years ago, almost to the day, by her beloved husband Frank--they were married for 53 years. She leaves to mourn her son Martin, daughter-in-law Phoebe, grandchildren Amiel, Miriam and Timothy as well as her close cousin Peter Moogk, a UBC Professor Emeritus.
Her son Martin, who is the rector at Grace Memorial Episcopal Church in Portland, Oregon, will be arranging a celebration of her life to take place in Vancouver at some point in the new year.
Helen expressed much appreciation for the cards and visits she received during her time at Purdy. It meant a great deal to her to know that she had not been forgotten.
If you wish to send a card of condolence to her family, you can do so via Helen's home address. As Martin does not come to Vancouver very often, there will be a delay before he opens it. The occupant of the house sets aside mail meant for him:
Reverend Martin Elfert
c/o 3824 West 1st Avenue
Vancouver BC V6R 1H5
If you prefer to send Martin an email, you can do so at: martine@grace-memorial.org
