Helen Wall was the third of 9 children born to George and Maria Konrad, in Gnadenthal, Man. Her first 12 years were spent there, attending school, taking care of her brothers, and being part of a busy, hardworking family. Helen finished high school, boarding at Mennonite Collegiate Institute. In 1946, her family moved to a dairy farm in Matsqui, B.C. Helen set out for a new adventure by attending normal school in Vancouver to earn her teaching certificate. She taught for one year in a one room school with Grades 1 to 6. Helen met Jake Wall at Matsqui MB Church. Their first date was to Peace Arch Park. They married in 1948, after the flood waters had receded, and settled on a dairy farm. This is where the 4 children were born; it holds many memories for them. Helen and Jake looked around for more land or a change of occupation. The opportunity came, in 1964, to purchase Grace Book Shop in Chilliwack, B.C. Jake and Helen embraced the new challenge. Helen and Jake sold the store in June 1988 with the intention of enjoying their retirement together. Life came to a sudden halt when Jake had a heart attack and died on the golf course in fall of the same year. Helen’s determination to move forward was enabled by her faith in God and the support of family and friends. Helen moved to Abbotsford to be closer to Maryanne and Roland. Her family enjoyed many Christmas, Easter, and Thanksgiving dinners in her apartment common room. The family also loved playing games, especially Rook. Helen lived more than 30 years without Jake. She continued their pattern of travel, took up quilting, and embraced hospitality. Her family walked through the last years together, literally and figuratively, honoured to share the journey. Her legacy is one of love and strength.
