Helen I. Foreman

As Miss Sellers, and also as Mrs. Foreman, Helen was one of two red-haired Helens who taught the primary and junior grades at Port Carling Continuation School in the 1940s and 1950s. The other Helen, Helen Garritt, had to teach us to say “Mrs. Foreman” instead of Miss Sellers. The two red-haired Helens loved to play Scrabble in the little teachers’ office, at the head of the stairs in the centre of the school. Mr. Thompson was the principal, and we were taught to differentiate between ‘principle’ and ‘principal’ by remembering that Mr. Thompson was our ‘pal’. The two Helens, one very petite, and the other tall and lean, were compared to a then popular cartoon duo by Mr. Thompson. I won’t mention the two cartoon names, in case it upsets Bonnie, but her mother, many years later, thought it was hilarious.

My favorite Aunt Helen was always a kindhearted soul and has a special place in my heart. Her gardens were always as beautiful as her countenance. My sincere condolence is extended to my cousins Bonnie and Steve and their families and Helens dear sisters Evelyn and Mary. Sorrow and long days ahead will turn to fond memories of a wonderful lady who lived a good life. God keep as all in his loving care. Lauramae

A wonderful, gentle, gracious lady and my Grade 2 teacher too! When I was a very young child, your family lived next to mine and I spent many summer days swimming in the Indian River with Bonnie and Steve. Such fond memories of these times. Then my family moved to their home Joseph Street and your family moved to their place on Harris Street. Your mom was a wonderful teacher. So kind and gentle, never raising her voice (in my memory)…..I learned a lot as her student. Time flew by and I grew up, married and moved to Hamilton/Ancaster. Your mom was a kind friend to my mother Helen Buttler and for years, they had their hair done, each week, at the same time at Lisa’s hairdressing salon. My sincere convalescences go to both Bonnie, Steve and their families. You will miss her very much. But hold tight to those precious memories for they sustain you in this time of grief and for the years to come. Remembering you in my thoughts and prayers.
With love – Vickie (nee Buttler) and Bruce Gardner  

I was so sad to hear recently of Helen’s passing.  I find it hard to comprehend that she is no longer with us, as I have been so fortunate to know her for most of my life.  Helen and Garth were great friends of Mom and Dad (Jim and Olive Morrow) and along with Frank and Helen Buttler, and the rest of their fun crowd, and they all were so close and enjoyed life to the fullest.  Helen was also my favorite teacher, and I have so many fond memories of her from back then.  The Morrow family sends our most sincere condolences to Bonnie, Steve and your families, as I know what a void this will leave in your and your children’s lives, having just gone through this last Summer with Mom.  Rest in peace Helen.  Love Jackie Morrow xoxo