Helen Havlik. (Photo courtesy of the Needham-Jay Funeral Home)Helen Havlik. (Photo courtesy of the Needham-Jay Funeral Home)
Sarnia

Petrolia mourns death of former councillor

The Town of Petrolia is mourning the death of a former councillor, dedicated community volunteer, and advocate for rural hospitals.

Helen Havlik died at the age of 92 at Lambton Meadowview Villa on February 28.

She spent many years working at the Charlotte Eleanor Englehart Hospital (C.E.E.) of Bluewater Health and retired as director of nursing. She also served two terms on Petrolia council from 2006 to 2014, and spent many years as the president of the Sarnia Lambton Health Coalition.

"As a councillor she brought her community pride in her efforts and duties and kept the best interests of Petrolia and C.E.E. Hospital at heart," read a statement from the town.

While retired, Havlik volunteered with Lambton County Developmental Services, Trillium Health Partners, and the Sarnia Lambton Health Coalition. She was recognized for her efforts and received an Ontario Governor General's award, read an obituary from Needham-Jay Funeral Home.

Havlik was predeceased by her husband Frank and her son Tom, read the obituary. She will be missed by her daughter, brother, and nieces and nephews.

The flag at the Petrolia Municipal Office was lowered to half-mast Monday morning. The flag will return to full height following a funeral or other arrangements, as per the town's policy.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 6 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Needham-Jay Funeral Home. The burial is scheduled to take place at a later date at Kingsville Memorial Cemetery.

Read More Local Stories