Yvonne Cecile (Shank) Coté-Van Helden

With deep love and sorrow, we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved mother, Yvonne Cecile Coté, on June 24, 2025, at the age of 93.

Yvonne is lovingly remembered by her five surviving children: Debra Mitchell (Rob), Laurie Coté (Bruce), Richard Coté (Gordon), Andrew Coté, and Evonne Whelan (David) and her eleven grandchildren: Laura (Chris), Chris (Kate), Amy (Sarah), Kirsten (Gabe), Justine (Tim), Kirsi (Trent), Dave (Olivia), Joshua, Lily (Nate), Jack (Jill), and Tom (Ashley); and her seven great-grandchildren.  Yvonne was pre-deceased by her son David (1990) and her husband Denis (1999).

Born in Grosmont, Alberta, Yvonne was the youngest daughter of Philip and Martha Shank and the cherished twin of Eva (d. 1980). Raised on the family farm, she attended the local Athabasca school, where she learned the enduring values of hard work, faith, and family. She was the last surviving sibling in a family of 13 children.

After graduating in 1953, Yvonne worked as a Registered Nurse at the Edmonton General Hospital. Never one to shy away from adventure, she then worked as a flight attendant with Trans Canada Airlines. Her greatest journey began when she married Denis J. Cote on August 9, 1955.  Their children fondly remember a loving home and the Canmore cottage built by Denis and Yvonne where together with their six children skiing became a lifetime passion.

Yvonne dedicated her life to family. She created a warm and lively home where dinner was an event, and everyone was welcome. Her nurturing spirit extended far beyond her immediate family.

Faith and service were central to Yvonne’s life. She was an active member of the Catholic Women’s League and volunteered for many Catholic Charities, as well as other causes close to her heart.

Energetic and adventurous, Yvonne loved squash, tennis, synchronized swimming, bowling, golf, and skiing.

In 2004, Yvonne married Dave Van Helden, and they shared many joyful, adventure-filled years together including travel, salmon fishing and duck hunting.

Yvonne also shared a deep bond with her beloved niece, Rita Shank, who brought her much joy and guided Yvonne in her spiritual journey.  The family thanks Rita for her love and devotion to mom.

A Funeral Mass will be held at Sacred Heart Church (1307 14 Street SW, Calgary, AB) on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at 1:30 pm. Following interment at St Mary’s Cemetery, there will be a reception at The Inn on Officers’ Garden, 150 Dieppe Drive SW, Calgary AB.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Calgary.

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