Kane, Helen

Helen Kane went to be with the Lord Saturday, Sept. 4, 2010. She was the youngest daughter of Harry and Ann Kane. She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Margaret McAvoy; and her three brothers, Don, Lee and John Kane.Helen leaves behind her loving companion, John “Mac” McDonald; brother, James Kane and sister-in-law, Anita; twin sister, Harriette Martin and brother-in-law, Don Martin; sister-in-law, Theresa Kane; brother-in-law, Bob McAvoy; and wonderful nephews, nieces, cousins and dear friends.Helen was raised in Lawler, Iowa, where she was very involved in school, sports and church activities. Here she developed her deep Catholic faith and her lifelong love of the Sacred Heart. This helped her meet many challenging health problems in later years.She graduated from Clark College with an education degree and received her Master's Degree in Curriculum and Reading. Helen taught in the Cedar Rapids school system for 37 years and received “Teacher of the Year” award for outstanding work with students and contributions made to the teaching profession.Helen had a zest for living and a passion for her teaching, tennis, dancing, golf and swimming. She sang in the St. Therese choir. She attacked her dialysis fight with outstanding courage and brought love and laughter to others.She treasured her family and friends and left us feeling better for knowing her.A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Sept. 7, 2010, at St. Therese Catholic Mission, 20115 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers, FL. Entombment followed in Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Friends were received from 4 to 6 p.m. Sept. 6, 2010 at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home.In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hope Tidewell Hospice or the National Kidney Foundation. Online condolences may be made at Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33907, 239-936-0555.