Helen Margaret Faltus McClellan

Helen Margaret Faltus McClellan b in Montreal July 9, 1947 d in Oakville, ON October 9, 2020.

Daughter of the late Julius Faltus and Julia Pupp. Sister of the late Julius Faltus and Claire Faltus Feith. She leaves behind her daughters Holly & Kelly McClellan, son in law Nick Horsfall, sister Lillian Faltus Larsen, ex husband William McClellan and other extended family.

Helen was passionate and enthusiastic with all her interests and pursuits. She had an offbeat sense of humour and sometimes liked to break rules. Often she was a force to be reckoned with. Throughout her lifetime she loved going to the beach and meeting all kinds of people. She really enjoyed outdoor winter activities like downhill skiing and skating. She especially cherished her time working at Gray Rocks ski resort in the 60’s.

She was happiest socializing or travelling with friends and participating in all kinds of group activities. Helen was very creative. Most of that talent could be seen in her domestic projects like holiday decorating, crafting, cooking, and experimenting with painting. She use to make doll clothes for her daughters during quiet hours while working the switchboard at the Montreal Gazette.

Helen was an avid sewer from an early age. She thrived on challenges like modifying patterns or creating templates from her clothes. Her sewing skills were shared with her kids and many community groups during her lifetime. In the 70’s and early 80’s she pursued ceramics and completed several projects demonstrating good painting and glazing skills. Vintage collectors of today would be impressed with her works.

She embraced 80’s fashions. Her love of leather and suede pants and skirts continued into her later years. She pursued 80’s aerobic fitness and even had a chance to audition for the hit T.V. show the 20 Minute Workout. She turned down the audition.

In the 90’s she worked as a realtor. She enjoyed office duty, placing ads, open houses and showing off homes. After her kids were grown, she had lots of travel opportunities with friends. One of her favourite trips was to Nashville with her friend Camille.

In her later years she worked and did some volunteer work at Oakwood Public School. After retiring it was clear she really missed the young children, especially the autistic kids. She also valued her time as an active member of St. Aidan’s Anglican Church in Oakville.

The family wishes to thank the many friends and neighbours who helped as her health declined, including PSWs and medical staff who touched her life. Special thanks to her friends Bill Lynch & Monica, Dr. Renee Graice and Sarah Hassan at the Waterford.

In honour of Helen, have fun going second hand shopping. Support a small community group by participating in a fundraiser, donating money or volunteering. Helen’s main causes were children, seniors, helping the poor and accessibility for the disabled.

Several private services honouring Helen will be held at a later time.

Friends wanting more information or to contact Holly or Kelly:
HelenMargaretMcClellan@gmail.com