It is with deepest sadness that I have to write of the sudden passing of my dad, Michael Francis Helin (Mike, Ralph). Cancer took him on Saturday October 14th. Dad passed away with the reassuring voices of his family surrounding him. He leaves behind his wife and companion of 43 years, Donna Helin, daughter, Michelledawn Helin, granddaughter, Minna and grandchildren, Tony Danskin, Ashley Kelly and Andrew Danskin. Stepchildren and (grandchildren), Steven Helin, Wanita Sani (Eric), Dorothy Fraser (Lindsey, Grace), Cathy Helin (Robin, Shayla(Avia) and Taryn. Sisters, Gladys Reeves, Florence Cameron, Rosena Conners, Blanche Pace, Margaret Johnston and Carla Jonson, brothers, Edison Helin and Gunnar Helin. He was predeceased by brothers, Gabe Helin, Ronnie Helin, Roy Helin, Ray Helin and sisters, Eileen MacDonnell, Sonya Taylor. Dad was a no Nonsense kind of guy. He said things like they were and people always knew where they stood with him, and if you didn’t like that it was fine by him. He worked hard his whole life, right up to the very end. He had a love of the outdoors that seemed more first nature to him than second. Hunting, fishing, you name it. He was at home amongst the trees and shared his love of the woods with me. I will always love the smell of sawdust and balsam...dad had a permanent aroma. He did everything he could for us and anyone who needed help he would be there. He was one of a kind. I don’t think there was anywhere Dad could go where he didn’t run into or know every person. There are so many things that I could say about the man, but Dad wouldn’t like all the attention. He was practical and to the point. He didn’t want a fuss and he would barely accept a thank you. Those that knew him well knew those things too. He will be forever missed, always loved and never forgotten. As per dad’s wishes there will be no services. Cremation has taken place, and his final wishes carried out privately. Dad didn’t like big "to do’s". He told me that if people wanted to share a story or a laugh and have a beer that’s how he wanted to be remembered. Memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or a charity of one’s choice. Arrangements are under the dignified and compassionate care of the G.W. Giffin Funeral Home Ltd, 17545 Highway 316, Country Harbour. Online condolences may be made at www.gwgiffin.com