BOUTILIER, Helen Gertrude - 96, Hackett's Cove, passed away Friday, October 6, 2006, in the New Halifax Infirmary, QEII. Born in Halifax, she was a daughter of the late Albert and Belle (Cornelius) Bowser. She lived in the north end of Halifax as a child and survived the Halifax Explosion and its aftermath, clearly remembering the horrors of that time. In 1929 she married Robie and began her life in Hackett's Cove. She was an extraordinary gardener and had planted her vegetable and flower gardens this past summer, as she always did. She was the provider to family and friends of homemade jams, jellies, pickles, the world's best fruitcakes, hand knit sweaters, socks, mittens and afghans, guidance and wisdom. She is survived by son, Elmer, and daughter, Joan (Don) Hood, both of Hackett's Cove; grandchildren, Cheryl, Stephen, Cathy, Joanne, Irene, Brenda, Wayne, Anne, Linda, Doreen, Colleen, Arthur, Nick and Philip; 17 great-grandchildren and five great great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband, Robie; son, Ralph; daughters, Belle and Gwyneth; brothers, Ralph, Jack and Hun (Wilber); sisters, Grace and Doss (Dorothy); and grandsons, Lloyd and Edgar. A celebration of Helen's remarkable life will be held 2 p.m. Saturday, October 14, in St. Peter's Anglican Church, Hackett's Cove, Rev. Irving Letto officiating. Burial will be at a later date. Services have been entrusted to Ronald A. Walker Funeral Homes. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Peter's Anglican Church, Hackett's Cove, or charity of your choice. On-line condolences can be made at: www.rawalker.ca