Helen Nickel died Apr. 22, 2011. She was born Sept. 11, 1929 in Winnipeg to John and Amalia Martens. Shortly thereafter, the family moved to Greendale, B.C. Helen’s was a life of faithful, service to family, neighbours, and her Lord. When her mother died, 14-year-old Helen assumed the care of the home and her siblings. She married Dan Nickel in 1949. From 1965−1985, they served with distinction and sacrifice in India and Indonesia. When health issues required their return to Canada, they reached out to immigrants through a pastoral role at Bakerview MB Church, Abbotsford, B.C. After retirement, Helen took 7 mission trips to India, and was involved with Dan in compassion ministries, encouraging recovering alcoholics, prisoners, single mothers, and many others in need. In 2001, Helen was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and entered Maplewood House in 2008. Helen will be remembered for her exemplary life, infectious joy, and pure love. Predeceased by 2 brothers, Helen is mourned by Dan; sons Larry (Edna), Gordon (Gwen), John (Sue), Ron (Karen); 11 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; 5 siblings.
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