Helen Sawatzky

Frayne, Helen Irene (nee Sawatzky)

Died surrounded by loving family on Monday December 3, 2018 at 91. Born April 21, 1927 in Viscount, Sask. Helen Frayne was a fiercely independent pioneer in radio and journalism, launching her career at the tender age of 17. Helen would become a veteran freelancer, working for stations in Saskatoon, San Francisco, Toronto, and Ottawa, where she was best known for her work for CBO (Radio Morning and Radio Noon) as well as national documentaries for CBC. Her many career experiences include teaching in a one-room schoolhouse in Saskatchewan, working for Butterick Fashion in NYC, designing a fitness training program for the Canadian Air Force (honorary "flight lieutenant") and performing voiceovers for Crawley Films. She was also responsible for the dissemination of CBO Radio's most mailed (by snail) recipe, her "mother-in-law brownies." Helen loved water and nature, thus lived in Calabogie after her husband Bob died. She was an accomplished storyteller, sharing her family history over the years. Friends think her unassuming, yet present, a lover of knowledge (aka news junkie). A lifelong lover and supporter of the arts, Helen was Rob and Joanna's most ardent fan. Remembered with great love by children Rob (Martine) and Jo (Pam); sisters Audrey and Lauren; extended family and many friends; grandchildren Alice, Scott, Marielle and Charlie. Memorial TBA, contact helenfraynememorial@gmail.com

Instead of flowers, Helen would appreciate donations to your favourite local charity.