Obituary of Brent Arnott Helmer
Brent Arnott Helmer | February 7, 1962 - December 27, 2023
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Brent Helmer at the age of 61, on December 27, 2023. Brent peacefully departed in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his family and loved ones.
A devoted husband, he was the pillar of strength for his wife Jenny, who now navigates a world forever changed without him. A loving and encouraging father, Brent leaves behind four daughters: Karrie Veinotte, Meagan Helmer (Joel), Kayla Helmer, and Tabatha Hawryluk (Matthew). Brent's grandchildren; Ella, Theo, Ezra, and Cyra (Meagan); Marlow (Kayla); Hannah, Jackson, Carter, and Hinley (Karrie); Mason (Tabatha) were a source of immense joy. Brent is survived by his mother, Jeannette Helmer, with whom he shared a deep and daily connection. He held his 2 sisters; Patricia Puga (Orlando) and Valerie Helmer-Peschier (Urban), in high regard. Another significant presence in Brent's life was his beloved aunt, Anna Rennick, whom he loved with all his heart and soul. Brent's love extended to his nieces and nephews; Natasha Theriault (Lanfah), Manuel Puga, Veronica Persichetti (Loreto), Curtis Helmer-Peschier, and Brittany Helmer-Peschier. Brent's lifetime friend and confidant, Luc Lajeunesse, was his right-hand man and considered a brother. Brent was preceded in death by his father, Paul Helmer, and his nephew, Matthew Helmer, who often aspired to emulate his cherished uncle.
Known for his remarkable qualities, Brent's sky-blue eyes were often cited by his wife Jenny as the source of his charismatic charm. He was a kind and generous soul, characterized by a big heart and a willingness to lend a helping hand in times of need. Always impeccably presented, Brent took pride in his appearance, lighting up any room with his contagious smile and infectious laugh. A true class act, he was often the life of the party.
Brent's phenomenal work ethic was evident in every detail of his endeavors, reflecting his commitment to perfection. He had a deep love for music and animals, with dogs being his constant and loyal companions throughout his life. Brent's free-spirited nature led him on incredible adventures, from riding his Harley to snowmobiling in the mountains of Alberta. His motto: "There is no shortcut to any place worth going."
In the words of the late Robert Frost, Brent walked "the road less traveled" with a spirit unyielding to convention. His life was a journey of winding roads, full of lessons learned at every bend.
WELLAND FUNERAL HOME, CREMATION AND RECEPTION CENTRE have had the honour of caring for Brent and his family. A graveside service will be held Saturday, April 13, 2024, at 12:00 pm, at Pleasant Valley Cemetery, South Stormont, Ontario. Followed by a celebration of Brent's life from 1:30 pm to 5:30 pm, at John McMartin Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 297, Glen Lounge Room, 415 Second St. W., Cornwall, ON K6J 1H1. A second Celebration of Life will take place Saturday, May 4, 2024, in Sherkston Shores, details to follow.
In remembrance of Brent Helmer, let us reflect on the road he traveled-a road that, like Brent himself, never ends.
And there's a road, a winding road that never ends
Full of curves, lessons learned at every bend
Goin's rough unlike the straight and narrow
It's for those, those who go against the grain
Have no fear, dare to dream of a change
Live to march to the beat of a different drummer
And it all might come together
And it all might come unraveled
On the road less traveled
For the road less traveled ain't for the faint of heart
For those who choose to play it safe and never stray too far
Me, I wanna live my life and one day leave my mark
On the road less traveled
I've chosen a pathway I may not endure
One thing's for certain nothin's for sure
On the road less traveled
There's a road, a winding road that never ends
-Written by Doug Johnson, Hillary Lindsey, and Chris Stapleton.
Performed by George Strait
