Helen (Reddekopp) Basnett

Helen Basnett
1931 – 2020

It’s with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Helen Basnett on February 2, 2020, in Penticton, BC at the age of 88. Helen was born in Rosthern, SK to Jacob and Sarah Reddecopp. She was the fourth oldest of ten children, with 8 brothers and 1 sister. Her parents moved to Aldergrove, BC when Helen was young. She met her husband, an orchardist, in Cawston as she was working at Grover's (Amber Light) Cafe. After dating and enjoying each other, when it came time to say goodbye, they both realized they couldn’t live without each other. She remained a faithful helpmate for her husband’s orchard and made time for growing vegetables, canning, sewing clothes and quilts, and serving customers on the fruit farm. Helen won engraved silver rose bowls at the Cawston Fall Fair for best arrangements of roses and fruits. She was also active in the PTA of her children’s school. Helen served her beloved church as treasurer and Awana Kids Club leader. She lived the faith she enjoyed: loving the Lord, praying daily for family and friends, and blessing all who stopped to chat and unload their burdens or share her joy in the Lord. She was predeceased by her husband Raymond J. Basnett. Helen is survived by her son Dale of Kelowna, daughter Karen (Brian) of Kelowna, grandson Christopher (Marli) of Prince George, granddaughter Janesse of Vancouver, as well as her siblings: Ben of Abbotsford, Eva of Chilliwack and Wilfred of Aldergrove. Her passing words as she discussed her lifetime were that she lived “a good hard life.”

She was a deeply passionate and caring sister, wife, mother, auntie, friend, and Grams and is missed by all.