It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our dear matriarch, Helen Halas (née Surtel).

Helen passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 13, 2025, three weeks before her 95th birthday. Helen was born in Montreal on December 5, 1930, to Michael and Anna Surtel. She is predeceased by her beloved husband of 65 years, Henry "Chick" Halas.

Helen will be remembered as a loving and devoted mother to her three children, Debra (the late Ted Ophelders), Paula (Jaan Vaikla), and Paul (Donna Bovair).

Helen's legacy will live on through her six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Devoted and proud Babi to Chantelle (Derek Carvalho), Elysha (Bradley Wheeler), Clarissa (Alessandro Mazza), Nathaniel (Teah Kiviste), Karianne (Brandon Gagnon) and Olivia (Eitan Gabbay). Her grandchildren have fond and everlasting memories of dancing with their Babi at weddings and at the Roncesvalles Polish Festival. Helen will be fondly remembered as the "Dancing Queen of Parkland."

Helen was blessed with five great-grandchildren, and she shared her youthful spirit whenever she was with them. Loving Prababcia to Jaxson and Jordan Wheeler, Theo and Chloe Carvalho and Siena Mazza.

Helen embraced her Polish heritage and enjoyed attending Easter basket blessings with her family. She always made Christmas special by sharing traditions that will be passed down through the generations. This will serve as a reminder and a cherished memory of her endless love and devotion to her family.

Helen is survived by her sister, Stephanie Krzyzanowski. She was predeceased by her sisters, Stella Leonard, and Cecilia Koturbash. Helen will be fondly remembered by her many nieces, nephews, and her extended family.

Special thanks are due to her cousin Janina Malinowski and the caregivers at Parkland on Eglinton West for their care and compassion over the past year.

Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Friday, November 28, 2025, from 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm at Turner in Porter Yorke Chapel, 2357 Bloor Street West, Toronto.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Society of Toronto or a charity of your choice.