Helena Martens Huitikka (nee Braun)
Obituary
It is with heavy hearts and deep love that we announce the peaceful passing of Helena M. Huitikka, age 87, of Steinbach, Manitoba. Helen passed away in her sleep on the morning of Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at St. Boniface Hospital, with her beloved son and daughter-in-law by her side.
Helen is survived by her children Carol (Mike) and Stanley (Donna); her grandchildren Jennifer (Craig) and Brett (Noelle); and her cherished great-grandchildren Belle, Braxton, Sierra, and Brooke. She is also lovingly remembered by her sisters Gertrude, Eva and Barbara (Harry), along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family who will miss her dearly.
Helen was predeceased by her loving husband Albert, her sisters Justina, Agatha, and Margaret, her brothers-in-law Abe, Frank, Vern, and Laurie and her half siblings Agnes, Tina, Jacob, Annie, Mary, John, and Cornie.
Born on November 16, 1937, in Barkfield, Manitoba, to John and Maria Braun, Helen was the middle child of seven spirited sisters. Life on the farm was filled with laughter, mischief, and the kind of bonds only sisters can share.
In her early adult years, Helen moved to Winnipeg, where she worked at the University of Manitoba. When Ontario Hydro came recruiting for their lumber camps, Helen – never one to pass up a new adventure – signed on and relocated to Dryden, Ontario, where she met Albert Huitikka. They married on March 12, 1960, and together, they welcomed two children: Carol in 1961 and Stanley in 1962.
Throughout her life, Helen worked in a variety of jobs: the Ontario Ministry planting trees, served in the hospitality industry, and cared for neighbours’ children. She lived a life full of purpose and service.
In Dryden, Helen was active in her community – she bowled, played bingo, and volunteered at Princess Court. Shortly after Albert’s passing, she fulfilled her long-time wish of moving to Steinbach to be closer to her sisters. There, she quickly built a vibrant new life, volunteering at the MCC Thrift Store, enjoying dances at 55+, and forming new friendships over coffee at Bake World. She later moved to Linden Place, where her warmth and sense of humour continued to brighten the lives of those around her.
Helen had a deep love of music and found joy playing her guitar and singing. Her faith was an anchor in her life, and she was a proud member of Cornerstone Bible Church. She also lived courageously with diabetes for over 63 years – a testament to her strength and resilience.
Helen enjoyed many trips to Alberta, first to visit her children and grandchildren, and later to visit her much-loved great-grandchildren. In her later years, she would often say, “I don’t think I’ll do that trip again,” but sure enough, the next year she was ready to hop in the truck with Stan and head west once more. Her adventurous heart never faded.
She lived her life with a heart open to all and leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering faith. Her smile and laughter will be dearly missed.
The memorial service will be held on Friday, October 3, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach, MB. Interment will take place at Steinbach Memorial Cemetery, following the service & faspa.
The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the dedicated caregivers of St. Boniface ICU for their compassionate care of Helen and their kindness to the family during her final days.
“It is well with my soul.”
