Condolence: Dear Murdo, May the special memories that you have of your wife help you cope during this difficult time. My deepest sympathy, Darlene

Condolence: We were so sorry to hear about Helene’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends.

Condolence: Sending an abundance of love and light to the Van Doninck and Messer families during this time of incredible loss. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs: Rose

Condolence: I was deeply saddened to hear of Helene’s passing. We attended the Nova Scotia Agricultural College together. From the moment we met during Frosh week I knew that I had met one of the smartest and funniest women I would ever know. My sincerest condolences to Murdo, Donna, Bernie and family.

Condolence: I couldn’t be more heartbroken over this loss. The world was better with Helene in it. She was caring, smart, passionate, hilarious and sarcastic, I just loved her. She was a very close friend of my Dad’s which made her feel like family. She’s made her beautiful mark in the world and those who knew her, will never forget what she stood for and what she taught us. One of my favourite memories that makes me laugh is when I think of the day I visited her with Dad at her Wildlife Rehab Centre. She brought us into the fly zone to watch injured eagles fly with their newly regained strength, she showed us a porcupine, an owl, some other birds that all were fed and cared by her and her staff. I was drawn to the owl and she said “how about we feed it Jenn? Go grab a pinkie over there” I burst out laughing and said what the heck is a pinkie?” She pointed to this container that had gross slimey pink creatures and she said “baby mice- they’re a nice treat” I’ll miss her and so will so many others!

Condolence: Dear Murdo and Family, my sincere condolences for your loss. Helene was a positive force of nature and she lead by example. I will be one of so many missing her ways, her expertise, and her influence. The void is large.

Condolence: So sad to har of Helene's passing. We went to school together and played saxophones in the school bands and music camps at NSAC. She was such a bright soul - loving and talented. Will certainly be missed. Our hearts and prayers go out to the family. Take care.

Condolence: From Belgium , we only can sent our most Condolences to the Family and thank Helene for her most dedicated work she did, hope her legacy will keep going.

Condolence: We just learned of Helene's passing. No words can adequately express our heartfelt thoughts that go out to you and all the Messer, Van Doninck families at this sad time. The many tributes flowing in show the respect and gratitude for Helene's and your selfless dedicated work for all the injured wildlife that arrived at your door. Helene made a huge difference in the lives of so many, throughout her life. We were very proud to have known her and we wish you peace in the days ahead. We hope Helene's wings are now strong and that yours will mend in time. We are thinking of you, and if we can do anything in the days and weeks ahead, just let us know. Bob and Sharon Burt and family.

Condolence: I am so sorry to hear of Helene's passing. Some years ago she graciously came to speak to my class when we were studying birds. She shared her respect and reverence for nature with us and I'm sure left a a lasting impression on the students. Her passion was contagious and she has been a wonderful role model for those concerned with preserving wildlife.

Condolence: Hello Murdo and family. I'm very sorry for the loss of Helene. What a champion she was. Working with her at AC was a pleasure - always upbeat, positive and knowledgeable in spite of a life dedicated to helping animals so gravely in need. She was really a wonderful person. I hope now that she can rest free of pain.

Condolence: Andrew and I would like to express our condolences to you and your family on the passing of your wife. You are in our thoughts at this difficult time

Condolence: I am very sorry to hear of Helene’s passing. We grew up as close neighbours on George St. She was smart as a whip, funny, and a trail blazer. The earth has lost a truly great sole. Forevermore, Ruth.

Condolence: Staff in the Department of Lands and Forestry wish to send their deepest condolences to Helene’s family, friends and colleagues. Her dedication to wildlife and birds in particular will be missed, but her contributions will last in the work she has accomplished, both for the wildlife she has helped and the people who learned from her.

Condolence: My condolences to Helenes family and friends, a life so vibrant cut short too soon. As a classmate and colleague always enjoyed to talk to her although not often enough. I will miss her presence at meetings and conferences.Gone but not forgotten.

Condolence: So sorry to hear of Helenes passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and the loving wildlife she so adored. I great loss to all..xo

Condolence: I was so saddened to hear of Helene's passing. I grew up as a friend with Bernie on George Street In New Waterford; Helene was like my other big sister - lots of fond memories - I still recall her posters of David Cassidy! I was so impressed with her work in the wildlife community. Whenever I heard her on the news, she spoke so intelligently and passionately about the impact things were having on wildlife. She will be missed by many. My sincere condolences to all her family, friends an co-workers.

Condolence: On behalf of our Board of Directors and members, we send our deepest sympathy to you, Murdo and Helene's family. Having Helene's presence on our board and on other committee's we shared, her influence and direction was instrumental in the decisions, changes and focus we've made. We must hope, but doubt, we will see another human with such compassion, determined commitment and focus to set things right, especially with all things environmental. We have been so fortunate to have known her and benefited from her. Without her, our society is a much poorer place but the privilege of knowing her and learning from her has been invaluable.

Condolence: The term 'hero' is over used today. But it truly applies to Dr. Helene VanDoninck for her tireless efforts in trying to save wildlife from humans . The wildlife of this country have lost one of their best friends.Our thoughts and sympathies are with Murdo and his family

Condolence: Dear Murdo, I am so sad to hear the news of Helene's passing. May the good memories support you through this difficult time. Long live her foundation and spirit.

Condolence: Helene, was an absolute wonderful, kind, intelligent cousin, It’s just terrible her life was take away from her :( I wish I had the opportunity to say goodbye but I’ll see her one day high in the sky.... RIP Helene

Condolence: I was sorry to hear of Helene's passing. I loved her authenticity and her passion for her cause. She will be remembered. Take care Murdo.

Condolence: We will honour her memory, for the caring, friendly & talented person she always was. A tremendous loss. Our sympathy to family & friends. Buzzy & Joan Connors

Condolence: The NS Federation of Anglers and Hunters, Executive and members of the multitude of clubs making up our organization are greatly saddened by Helene's passing. Seldom have we seen an individual with the drive, focus and dedication capable of enabling significant change within an organization and extended community. Helene placed NSFAH on a change of course associated with the removal of lead from our activities, habitat and wildlife that had never been done before in Canada. It was her passion that brought our organization to the realization that we could and should make a difference. Helene utilized her "presence" to move us forward and left us with the knowledge that every individual or group can actually change things for the better. We, our habitat and wildlife are all somewhat better because of her efforts.

Condolence: Halifax Wildlife Association, it's Executive, Board of Directors and members send our condolences to Murdo and all of Helene's family and to everyone at CWRC. Helene was a driving force who directed us with her passion, drive, focus and compassion. Her efforts in regard to saving wildlife from the horrible effects of lead exposure will be remembered and continued through programs headed by HWA. Helene was able to convert many hunters, trappers and anglers from using lead based products and move to alternative that help prevent injury to her beloved wildlife and their habitat. We feel fortunate to have known and worked with Helene over several years and will miss her greatly.

Condolence: My sincere condolences to Murdo and family . Helene had a joy for life and I specifically remember your Bare Naked Ladies cruise. It was my honour to have known her .

Condolence: My sincere condolences to Murdo, all family members and staff and friends of CWRC. Helene’s passing is such a loss for our community and wildlife. Her passion was infectious. LaVonne Bilby