Tribute

Cranbrook native, Helen Taylor, passed away at the East Kootenay Regional Hospital in Cranbrook on April 13, 2012 at the age of 87.

Born in the Old Masonic Hall on 11th Avenue, Helen lived her life to the fullest always meeting life’s challenges with determination.  In her youth, she was instrumental in arranging high school basketball tournaments between the cities in the Kootenays.  As an adult, she looked for what was available in children’s sports and was determined that the community would have whatever was needed.  Her first accomplishment was introducing Red Cross swim instruction.  She later started our competitive swim team the “Cranbrook Plungers” and initiated swim lessons for mentally challenged children and adults.  During this time, Helen also sat on the Recreation Commission, advocated for our first heated swimming pool, coached minor ball and was the leader of a girl guide company.  She encouraged all children to celebrate their achievements and cheered loudly for all accomplishments regardless of which team they played for.

During this time, Helen raised four children:  Randy (Joanne), Brian (Sue), Linda and Trent (Judy).  She and her husband Bernie (married 64 years) owned and operated Reddy’s Service Ltd. at the end of the strip.  After retirement, Helen remained active in the community.  Her most recent accomplishments included assisting with the Key City Chronicles (history book) and overseeing the fundraising and construction of the Kootenay Children’s Train.  She was always up for the challenge!

She will be sadly missed by her children, 10 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, relatives and friends.