Helen Isobel Tripp

Helen Isobel Tripp (nee Lawrie)

May 6, 1934 - July 18, 2025

Helen Isobel Tripp (lovingly known as “Mom”, “Um”, “Nana” and “Auntie Helen”) passed away peacefully in her sleep on July 18, 2025 at the age of 91. Helen is survived by her children, David (Sue), Steven (Joanne), Michael (Denise) and Vicki as well as her adored grandchildren, Natasha, Connor, Brett, Andy, Kieran, Griffin, Morgan and Carson. She also leaves behind her nephew Bill, niece Lawrie (Dave), great-nephew Paul (Katie), great-niece Sarah (Neil) and great-great nieces, Clara and Nora. Helen was predeceased by Bill Tripp, her husband of 47 years, her father Donald Lawrie, mother Ethel Lawrie, step-mother Jean Lawrie and sisters, Margaret Stevens and Jean Lawrie. 

Helen was born in Toronto, Ontario on May 6, 1934. She graduated with a diploma in Physical and Occupational Therapy from the University of Toronto in 1957. On August 24, 1957 Helen married Bill and together began a lifelong CP Rail adventure of moving across Ontario, Manitoba, Alberta and BC. No matter where Bill’s career would take their family of six, Helen made sure every house was home. She became an expert at moving on short notice and created lifelong friendships in every town. 

Throughout her life, Helen connected with every community in which she found herself. She was actively involved in CP Rail Bridge, Newcomers, Welcome Wagon, Diners Club, the Delta Hospital Auxiliary and numerous books clubs. She was a BC Marriage Commissioner for over 25 years and took great joy in being a part of the many unions she performed. Helen and Bill travelled extensively during their marriage and after Bill’s passing, Helen regularly divided her time visiting her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed reading, movies, the theatre and was an expert seamstress, knitter, Tupperware drawer organizer and maker of her world-famous cheese dip. 

Helen loved all her family - biological and chosen. She was “Um” and “Nana” to many as her generous, maternal heart had no limit. She was a dear, loyal friend who enriched the lives of all who knew her as she welcomed everyone with open arms.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In the meantime, please raise a glass to toast this remarkable lady. She was so deeply loved and will be dearly missed.

“In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice”.