Browse the obituary of residing in the province of province1} for funeral details
Irene Heltman Obituary
February 4, 1932 – September 18, 2025
Irene Ellen Heltman (née Adams) passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, just months short of her 94th birthday.
Born in Prince Rupert, BC, she was the only daughter among five brothers. Growing up there shaped her love of nature, seafood, and respect for Indigenous culture. Later, moving to Langley and Hammond broadened her worldview and nurtured her creativity and resilience.
As a young adult, she moved to Vancouver with a friend and lived in a rooming house. She worked as a telephone operator and later at the Blind Institute, showing early independence and quiet determination. After moving to Alberta and working at the Banff Hotel, she met her future husband, John Willis (“Willis”) Heltman, in Canmore. They eventually settled in Edmonton, where Willis built a plumbing business and their family home. Irene stayed home to raise their four children: Brian, Keith, Wes, and Brenda Leigh.
After Willis’ death, Irene returned to BC to be closer to family. There, while raising her children, she worked various jobs — including at a cannery, in a seniors’ home, and providing daycare.
Irene was known for her homemade pies — perfecting the ultimate flaky crust — and for always having chocolate chip cookies ready, both traditions learned and passed down from her mother. She created a home full of warmth, where birthdays were never missed and everyone felt seen and loved.
She lived through heartbreak that would have broken most — the early loss of two beloved brothers, the death of her husband, and, at 65, being struck by a truck while crossing the street. But she rose every time, with quiet strength and unshakable grace. She was living proof of the saying she often quoted: “That which doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.”
She kept connections alive with her family. Her brother Ernie and his wife Les were a steady support she deeply valued.
She treasured lifelong friendships — 77 years with Eunice, and a beloved bond with Elsie, who passed during COVID.
Irene was predeceased by her husband Willis and her brothers Teddy, Cliff, Al, and Bobby.
Her spirit lives on in those she loved, and those who loved her.
She is survived by her children Brian (Syd), Keith, Wes (Sharon), and Brenda Leigh; her brother Ernie (Les); her sister-in-law Elaine; her grandchildren Jessica, Matthew, Dustin, and Krista; and her great-grandchildren Aria, Emerson, Lennon, and Amy. She is also lovingly remembered by many nieces and nephews, in-laws, extended family, and dear friends — all touched by her tenacious spirit.
She will be deeply missed and endlessly loved.
“What is remembered, lives.” — Traditional
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Irene Ellen (Adams) Heltman, please visit our floral store.
Read More
1932 2025 93 Years Old
Death notice for the town of: Gibsons, Province: Colombie britanique
death notice Irene Ellen Adams Heltman 1932 2025 93 Years Old
obituaries notice Irene Ellen Adams Heltman 1932 2025 93 Years Old
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Irene Ellen Adams Heltman 1932 2025 93 Years Old and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
