Hélène (Lachaine) Robillard

The family of Hélène Robillard (née Lachaine) are deeply saddened to announce her passing on April 20, 2022, at her home in Ottawa. She died peacefully in her sleep after a hard-fought battle with illness.

Born in Guelph, Ontario on May 22, 1933, and raised in Ottawa, she married Pierre Robillard and had five children. Their life together included 7 separate RCAF postings in 11 years, which took the family across Canada and as far overseas as Germany and France. Many wonderful and lasting friendships were forged during those hectic years, friendships that Mom cherished for the rest of her life.

As a divorced single mother, Mom worked for the Public Service Alliance of Canada and during those years, raised her family to honour others. A loving and proud grandma to her six grandkids, she enjoyed planning their trips to Ottawa. Museums and art galleries always figured prominently on the agenda followed by great dinners where the conversation was always good, and laughter was abundant.

Her final and most rewarding career came as a dedicated volunteer of the Riverside Hospital Auxiliary. For her 30+ years of passionate service, she received a Sovereign’s Medal for volunteers from the Governor General as well as the Ontario Volunteer Service Award, accolades that filled her with reserved pride.

Mom believed a successful life was measured by the good that one does. She lived by and taught her children the following principles: hardship makes you stronger; working for your keep creates a true sense of independence; there is no greater calling than caring for others and sharing with those who have less.

Left to mourn Hélène are her children Jean (Susan Southcott), Nicole (Fredrik Graver), Louis and Francine (Ulysse St-Jean), her six grandchildren: Cassandra, Carly and Alex Robillard; Annélise Tybring Graver; Olivia and Marie St-Jean as well as many friends and relatives. She was predeceased by her son Daniel, her parents Germaine and Osias Lachaine, her three brothers Robert, Paul and Claude and her cousin and very best friend Madeleine “Nanon” Bissonnette.

Most sincere thanks to the care team at Alta Vista Manor for the compassion shown to mom in her last days. You truly carried her during her most difficult days.

Donations can be made in her name to St. Elizabeth Home Society or to the charity of your choice.

A mass in her memory will be held at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Ottawa on Saturday, May 28, 2022, at 11 a.m. followed by a reception. There will be no visitation.