Obituary of Helen Buckland

To watch the Celebration of Helen's Life, please CLICK HERE.

Helen Buckland passed away peacefully with family by her side on Sunday, January 18, 2026 at Hillcrest Place Personal Care Home in Brandon, Manitoba at the age of 88 years.

She is survived by her loving husband, Ralph of 63 years; her daughter Diane (Dwayne) Nelles, son Brian (Sharon) Buckland; grandchildren, Rachelle (Zane), Andrew (Rose), Allyssa (Malic) and Lyall (Christina); great grandchildren, Wyatt, Peyton, Kinzley, Ryder, Elladie and soon to be Ozzi; brother Fred Restau, sisters, Hilda Restau and Ann (Sam) Hrycak; as well as countless extended family and friends. 

She is preceded by her parents, Edmund (Otylie) Restau; sister Lydia (Ken) Thompson, brothers Walter (Marilyn) Restau and Kenneth (Vivian) Restau. 

Helen was born on a farm near Wapella, SK.  She had 6 siblings. They all worked hard and enjoyed each other’s company.  “The Restau Farm” was the gathering place for family and friends throughout the years.  

Helen left home to pursue a career in teaching.  Her first teaching job was in Elkhorn, MB.  She later moved to Flin Flon, MB where she would also teach.  Upon attending The Pas Trapper’s Festival, she met her husband to be, Ralph Buckland.  They married and lived in Wapella, SK. where their daughter Diane was born in Whitewood, SK.  They later moved to Virden, Brandon and then Creighten, SK.  It was there that they welcomed their son, Brian.  In 1972 they moved to The Pas where she continued to sub and teach periodically throughout the years.  Summers were spent enjoying the beautiful lakes, camping at Campers Cove and later purchasing a cottage at Rocky Lake. Many years of enjoyment with family and friends were had.  Helen and Ralph were always known for their hospitality and Helen could sure cook up a delicious batch of fish, a main staple of living up north.  

Helen also had a green thumb.  Her flower garden was beautiful, filled with color and handled with love.  She and Ralph grew many a great vegetable garden as well.  They measured, weighed, ate and canned to their hearts content.  It became a great past time, enjoyed by many!!

Helen and Ralph also enjoyed some travelling over the years.  They took a cruise, did a bus tour to the states and one to the east coast of Canada, and they particularly enjoyed their winter holidays out west to visit Ralph’s family.  

Then, along came the grandchildren.  Helen spent countless hours playing cards, doing puzzles and going for walks.  Granny was gentle and loving and always had time for the little ones.  She couldn’t wait to become a Great-grandma. 

She always lit up when those littles ones were placed in her lap.  We will be sure to tell them how much they were loved by her!!

In the late 90’s Helen and Ralph moved to Brandon, MB.  They enjoyed retirement, met many good friends and played cards and dice on a regular basis.  Moose Jaw, SK. became a favorite place to travel to until it became too difficult for Helen to travel, but the relaxing spa, good friends and more cards always brought back such good memories.  

In November 2024 Helen and Ralph moved to Rotary Villas in Brandon.  There they met and made many new friends and were treated wonderfully by the great staff.  Over the year Helen’s health declined with many visits to the hospital.  

In January 2026 she moved to Hillcrest Place Personal Care Home.  Shortly thereafter her journey on earth came to an end.  She will be lovingly missed by her family and friends.  

Her life was beautifully lived and she was deeply loved!  We will miss her quiet ways; she will be forever in our hearts!!