Obituary of Helen Matheson

It is with heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of Helen Matheson (née Boyko) at the Foyer Richelieu in Welland on January 7th, 2026, in her 100th year.

Helen was born and raised on her family farm in Venlaw, Manitoba, and came from a large Ukrainian family. In 1947, she moved to Toronto, Ontario, where she later married her devoted husband, Leaho Matheson, in 1954. There she had a long and dedicated career with General Electric, where she was employed for 32 years.

Following Leaho’s passing, Helen shared a cherished friendship with Klaus Schilbach. Together, they enjoyed many memorable travels with Klaus’s daughters, including cruises to Alaska and trips throughout Europe.

In 2020, Helen relocated to Welland to be closer to family and resided at Plymouth Cordage until November 2025. As her health declined, she moved to long-term care at Foyer Richelieu, where she was cared for with compassion and dignity.

She was predeceased by her loving parents, Prokop and Olena Boyko (née Scraba); her beloved husband, Leaho Matheson; her dear friend, Klaus Schilbach; and her twelve siblings; Ann Semchych, Mary Fitkowski, John Boyko, Wasyl Boyko, Hilda Shabley, Tillie Caughell, Harry Boyko, Bill Boyko, Judy Buchy, Nancy McKenzie, Peter Boyko, and Stanly Boyko.

Helen’s niece and devoted caregiver, Brenda Falvo, extends her sincere gratitude and heartfelt appreciation to the compassionate staff, personal support workers, nurses, and friends at the Welland Hospital, Plymouth Cordage, and the Foyer Richelieu for the care and kindness shown to Helen in her final years. Helen will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate to know and love her.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Welland Funeral Home, Cremation and Reception Centre. In keeping with Helen’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association.