Helen Elizabeth McMann French (née Robertson)
Helen Elizabeth McMann French, of Midland, Ontario, passed away peacefully on July 23rd at the age of 99, surrounded by her devoted family.
Born on January 8, 1926, to Douglas Stewart Robertson and Netta Kathleen Robertson, Helen was raised in Victoria Harbour, Ontario. She was predeceased by her husbands, Walter McMann and Eldon French; her brothers, Stewart and Leslie Robertson; and her grandson-in-law, Scott MacCannell.
Helen leaves behind a loving family: her daughter Kay (Robert) Megaw; her stepsons, Larry (Allie) French and Gary (Madeliene) French; and grandchildren Cheryl MacCannell, Rob (Jen) Megaw, Kristi Megaw (Stuart Aspinall), Tony Giambattista, Landon (Sarah) French, and Rochelle (Bryan) Paquette. She was a cherished great-grandmother to Ryan (Rachel) Adams, Michael (Rowena) Adams, Sara (Chad) Hesse, Genna Megaw (Mateo Torres), Anna (Taylor) Clark, Kaelyn (Will) Collins, Taylor Megaw (Kaitlyn Pestill), Kurtis (Dali) Giambattista, Garrett Giambattista, Jill MacCannell, Doyle French, Reid French, Jaydon Paquette, and Sienna Paquette. Helen was also blessed with great-great-grandchildren Josephine, Hayleigh, Elliott, Avery, Miguel, Wesley, Lucy, and Isabelle. She will be deeply missed by her longtime companion, Marv Hebner.
Throughout her life, Helen was dedicated to helping others. She actively volunteered with numerous community organizations including St. Paul’s United Church Women (UCW), the Canadian Cancer Society, the Royal Canadian Legion, and Meals on Wheels. Helen’s extensive volunteer involvement earned her the Queen’s Golden Jubilee & Diamond Jubilee awards.
Visitation will take place at Carson’s Funeral Home J.H. Lynn Chapel 290 First St. in Midland on July 28th from 2:00–4:00 p.m. and 6:00–8:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held at St. Paul’s United Church on July 29th at 11:00 a.m., followed by a reception.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Canadian Cancer Society in Helen’s memory.
Arrangements entrusted to Carson Funeral Homes - J.H. Lynn Chapel (705) 526-6551. Online condolences and memories may be left at www.carsonfuneralhomes.com
Condolences
David McDonald
Aug 4, 2025Kay, Bob, Rob and family. Helen was an amazing individual, dedicated to helping her community. She will be missed by all that knew her.
Grace (McPeake) Howard
Aug 4, 2025I'm not a Midland resident now but I happened to see this when I looked for your obituaries.. I worked with Helen many, many years ago when she was Helen McMann. She was a great co-worker and we talked quite often, My condolences to her family. I'm sure she will be missed.
Bob and Naomi Emmett
Aug 4, 2025Kay and Bob, Our sincere condolences to you and your family with the passing of your mom. She certainly lived a long and full life of caring and service. We hope you are all comforted by many happy memories of your times together. Our thoughts and prayers will continue to be with you during this difficult time. With love, Bob and Naomi Lea
Karen Hatton & Kaitlyn
Jul 28, 2025I was very sad to hear of Helen’s passing! I am the Granddaughter of Capt.Reg & Florence Belcher & Daughter of Inez (Belcher)Hatton of Victoria Harbour. I knew her all of my life & she would call me a few times a year & visit. She was a very beautiful caring lady (wonderful sense of humour) who did a lot for her community. And she will be certainly missed. Karen Hatton, Penetanguishene
Judy McConnell
Jul 27, 2025How sad i was to hear of my dear friend Helen's passing. Helen was such an amazing woman I admired her greatly and I will miss her. I will miss the service for her as I am away and unable to be there but will think of her with great fondness. Goodbye my dear friend till we meet again!
Lisa Paradis
Jul 27, 2025I remember Helen as a friend and mentor who guided me as a patient to Transportation Convenor for the Canadian Cancer Society. Her warmth and encouragement is an understatement. Soon I wanted to help in any capacity I could. Helen was wonderful. May she rest in God's grace.
Sue Dorion (French)
Jul 25, 2025Aunt Helen’s wonderful sense of humour, generous and caring ways will always bring a smile to my face. She loved St Paul’s United Church and was involved in many different ways from teaching Sunday school to UCW. Her greatest pride though was her family and she just loved telling us of new additions or gatherings held. This great lady will truly be missed. Sue and Kevin Dorion
Carol Graham (French)
Jul 25, 2025Aunt Helen will be missed in our family and community of Midland. She has always given of herself to care for others. Her fun spirit made you want to spend time with her just to have a chuckle or two. She led her life with heart and soul.