Obituary of Helen Sutherland Petch

Petch, Helen (Nee Begg)

On a beautiful autumn day, October 23rd, 2022, Helen Sutherland Petch passed away peacefully at Strathmere Lodge, just a few weeks after celebrating her 98^th birthday. Helen was born in Wick, Caithness, Scotland, Helen arrived in Canada as a war bride to the love of her life, Whitford Petch. Whitford had served with the RCAF as a Sergeant, in Wick, Caithness, Scotland, after volunteering to serve his country as a young man. They farmed for 50 years on the second line Mullifarry Drive, Adelaide Township and raised a family through all the hardships and joys of farm life. Helen is predeceased by her baby daughter Heather Louise (1959), beloved husband Whitford Thomas (1996) and just recently her beloved son Whitford Alexander (2022). Helen leaves behind her son Wesley (Marie) Petch, her daughter-in-law Eileen Petch, her grandchildren Kathleen (Dan) Atagi, Teresa (Jon Quinn) Petch, Matthew Petch (Jenna) and Emily Petch (Michael).  Helen was the proud great-grandmother of Noah, Harrison, Levi, Lucia, Michael, and Tyler. Helen is survived by many nieces and nephews in the UK. Helen will now join her parents Alex and Ellen, and siblings Annie, Alexander, and Margaret in heaven. She enjoyed many visits back to her beloved Scotland. Helen also leaves behind her furry friend Rosie. Helen was always surrounded by her many friends on the farm and her many friends at Trillium Village. The family wishes to extend their gratitude and thankfulness for the compassion and care from the entire staff at Strathmere Lodge.

A private graveside service will take place at Strathroy Cemetery. A Celebration of Helen’s life will take place on Friday, October 28^th, 2022 from 2:00p.m.- 4:00p.m. at DENNING’S OF STRATHROY. As expressions of sympathy, donations may be to the Canadian Cancer Society, The Heart and Stroke Society, or the Kerwood United Church.

The world has a truly amazing person, we feel her presence with us every day, and we know she is safe up in heaven with our dear family.