Helene Lavigne passed away peacefully at Rainy River Long Term Care Facility on February 23, 2025, after 91 years of love, devotion, kindness, and adventure.
Born in Field, Ontario, to Emile Vézina and Henriette Tanguay, Helene was the eldest of 14 children.
She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Heribert (1925-1980), and her sons Pierre (1959-1961) and Paul (1953-2018), as well as her daughter Joanne. She was also predeceased by five brothers: Moise, Yvon, Donat, Gerard, and Eugene.
She was a wonderful mother to Joe (Gale), Diane (Martin Smits), Marie (Ron Wiggins), Alfred (Rini), Cecile, Jean (Yuliana), and Luc (Sri). She was a loving grandmother to 23 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren.
Helene is also survived by her sisters Alice, Juliette, and Therese, and her brothers Damien, Joseph, Cyril, Jean Paul, and Aurel.
A savvy businesswoman, Helene successfully managed a dairy operation with her husband for 23 years. She had a talent for gardening, sewing, quilting, and cooking. A warm and welcoming person, her door was always open, with a home-cooked meal at the ready. Her love for travel later in life was made possible by her accomplished driving skills. She will be fondly remembered for her “Joie de Vivre.”
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Online condolences may be made at North Ridge Funeral Home.
