In memory of

Helen McCown

December 2, 1926 - June 6, 2025

It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of Helen "Granny M " McCown in her 98th year.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband Robert and her brothers.

Helen was born in the former Yugoslavia and emigrated to Canada at the age of three. She and her family settled in Winnipeg and then moved to Toronto. She became a professional singer with her own show on the CBC under the name Helen Young and performed at the Apollo Theatre in Harlem, New York with Oscar Peterson. That was where she met her future husband, Robert.

Helen enjoyed traveling in her younger days. She and her husband traveled the United States by car on their honeymoon, and throughout her life her favourite destinations were Europe, the Bahamas and Las Vegas.

Helen's greatest joy was spending time with her son Robert, her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

The family would like to thank the staff at Sunrise Senior Living for making Helen's last days full of love, kindness and respect.

In lieu of flowers kindly make a donation to the Toronto Humane Society.

Guestbook

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Alison McCown (Grandma)

Entered June 8, 2025 from Toronto

Granny M, thank you for being a huge part of my life. From the time I was born I always felt so loved and motivated by you. The stories you told were one in a million, and I always loved learning about your upbringing, your family and everything in between. Even towards the end, you remembered the stories I’d bring up, smiling and nodding in acknowledgment. You hold a very dear place in my heart and I will forever thank you for being a wonderful grandma to me. May you rest in peace and meet with my grandpa in heaven. I love you. Until we meet again. 💙

Christina Mccown (Former daughter in law)

Entered June 10, 2025 from Toronto

Helen was amazing mother in law and grandmother to my children . She and my mom were a huge part of our lives . She was a force to be reckoned with and this spirit is what led her to live a long and fulfilled life. May she rest in peace and give a hello to my mom .

The Brunner/Perea Family (Friends)

Entered June 11, 2025 from Montreal

Our deepest sympathy to the family for the passing of this wonderful woman. It was a great privilege to have known her. She will be deeply missed. Sincerely, James, Sabine, Jessica, Jimmy & Aline

Nadine Cheryk (Family friend)

Entered June 12, 2025 from North York

Dear Bob, our heartfelt condolences to you and your family during this very difficult time. Helen was such a lovely lady. She consistently loved and embraced our family as if we were her own. Helen, your memory will forever live on in our hearts. May God bless you, keep you, and may you rest peacefully forevermore.

Sylvia Lee (friend)

Entered July 25, 2025 from Scarborough

I learned today of Helen's passing. Helen & I lived in the same condo. She was my bridge partner for many many years. We even travelled to a club in Markham for a while. We would talk for hours & were close friends for many years. She will be missed by those who remember her snazzy outfits & jewelry. She always dressed to the nines. A great lady, gracious hostess who willing helped anyone who was in need.
I am saddened by her passing but she lived a long fruitful life.

Photos

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