Celebrating 100 years. Happy Birthday Dad, Elmer Helm!

Written by Janet Helm, Realtor® and Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®) 

I’ve been reflecting on the photos and the many lovely comments shared by those who came together today to celebrate my dad’s 100th birthday at one of his parties, held at Delbrook Community Recreation Centre in North Vancouver, where my dad works out most days. When he was planning the celebration, he asked if I would reach out to his gym pals, which I was happy to do. Hearing how admired he is, and how often people spoke about his generosity, kindness, and positive attitude, was incredibly touching and something I’m very grateful for.

It felt especially fitting to celebrate him there, surrounded by so many of his gym, tennis, and pickleball friends.

Many of you already know parts of his story. He grew up on Vancouver Island, served in the Navy during World War 11, earned a Masters of Social Work from UBC, and devoted his career to social work. He served as Executive Director of the Association of Neighbourhood Houses of Greater Vancouver, leading initiatives such as the Alexandra Housing Society for low-income families and the Sasamat Outdoor Centre, where the main building is now named Helm Lodge in his honour. After more than 30 years of service, the Association established the Elmer Helm Youth Scholarship, which has supported over 200 students to date.

In 1955, he and my mom built their family home just off Delbrook, back when it was a gravel road. At the time, the area was all trees, and they walked into the woods to choose their lot. He still lives there today, aging successfully in place with the help of our family! 

Dad’s commitment to community also extended into sport and recreation. He has always been active, competing for years in the BC Seniors Games with my mom, Ollie. During his time as president of the North Vancouver Seniors Tennis Association, he was asked to lead a committee to secure a much-needed indoor tennis facility. After several years of advocacy, fundraising, and even using a bubbled court to demonstrate the need, over $100,000 was raised and turned over to the Recreation Commission, helping create the tennis centre that exists today on Lloyd Avenue.

That committee later became the advisory board for the tennis centre and tennis facilities throughout the city and district. As the sport evolved, the board also supported the growth of pickleball, approving dedicated courts at Murdo Fraser, where some of my family continues to play. When the centre was approved, my dad and fellow board member Frank Gardner received lifetime memberships to recreation centres in both the City and District of North Vancouver. He was also a recipient of the Jubilee Award, recognizing his longstanding involvement in the community.

I’m thankful to North Vancouver Recreation & Culture for generously offering the space, and to Heather Turner, Director of Recreation & Culture, and Shawn Toth, Fitness Centre Supervisor, who both spoke so warmly about my dad’s calm leadership and kindness. Deanna McGillivray, the communications and engagement advisor, also interviewed him. If you’d like to hear more of his story in his own words, the link to the interview is here. nvrc.ca/HappyBirthdayElmer

The photo above is from Dad’s second celebration, recently held with family and close friends. There were so many familiar faces, including dear friends I hadn’t seen in years. Somehow, we all picked up right where we left off, laughing, sharing childhood memories, and shedding a few grateful tears. I’m so thankful this milestone was celebrated with such fun, connection, and love. Thank you to everyone who came and helped make the day so special.