We regret to advise of the death of Sergeant John Hélie, CD (Ret’d), in the Chilliwack Hospital on 9 January 2026 at age 83.
John was born in Trois-Rivières QC, one of twelve siblings. He enlisted in the Royal Canadian Engineers in 1959 and served with the Canadian Military Engineers for 27 years as a Combat Engineer and a Heavy Equipment Operator. He spent most of his career in our field squadrons and saw his share of deployments. John was in 4 Field Squadron in Germany (1962-64) and then in 3 Field Squadron in Chilliwack BC where he was a member of the Canadian Armed Forces National Hockey Championship team in 1968. John then served in 5e Régiment du génie de combat in Valcartiers QC (1968-70), following which he was a Heavy Equipment instructor at the Canadian Forces School of Military Engineering in Chilliwack BC.
Following his retirement from the Canadian Forces, John remained in Chilliwack and worked for the Bank of Montreal.
When John retired in Chilliwack, he contributed to his community. He was very active with his Royal Canadian Legion Branch where he contributed in many roles, including leading the Colour Party, participating in ceremonial services, and assisting as a maintenance volunteer. John also drove patients to cancer clinic appointments in Vancouver. He was awarded the Sovereign's Medal for Volunteers in 2017 for his dedication and enthusiasm.
A Legion Poppy service and Celebration of Life will be held for John at the Chilliwack Legion Branch 205 on 7 March at 1:00 PM.