Twardowski, Helmut May 15, 1933 – May 14, 2019 Passed away peacefully at Extendicare Timmins on Tuesday May 14, 2019, surrounded by friends, at the age of 82 years. Helmut Twardowski was a passionate Canadian. He emigrated from Germany in the late 1950’s and dedicated much of his life to exploring and photographing what he called “the best country in the world”. Helmut is predeceased by his wife of 58 years, Otti Hoen-Twardowski (July 21, 2016). The two married in 1958. They shared a life-long passion for photography, nature, bird- watching, camping, travel, classical music and spending time on the land. Otti was a well-known potter and photographer in Timmins. She and a business partner owned and operated Anderson Studio for many years. Helmut arrived in Canada in the late 1950’s. He worked for a while on the shipping docks in Hamilton, but was lured north by the promise of better wages in the mines of Timmins. His heart was always in photography though, and his new job allowed him to buy the best camera and film equipment he could find. When a photography job opened up at CFCL in Timmins, Helmut says he ‘convinced” Conrad Lavigne to take a chance on him. He went on to be a highly respected news journalist, and documentary producer for the station. In the early 80’s he was hired by CBC Radio Canada as part of their northern news television staff, and worked there until he retired. Helmut was an avid bird watcher and was always researching their habits through his extensive book collection, and the library. He set up a weather recording station in his backyard so he could better predict the flight patterns and nesting times for many northern species. He always took part in the Christmas Bird Count. Helmut was well-read and had a lifelong passion for learning. His library included books on birds and climate, history, aviation, computer programming and poetry. Over the years, Helmut and Otti shared their home with many dogs who were always by their side, on summer walks, or northern ski trails. Helmut always said one of the greatest joys in his life, was his curiosity. He always tried to “be aware” to consciously look and really “see” the world, and to explore the great questions of life. Helmut will be missed by his many co-workers, his friends and his family in Germany. Special thanks to all of the staff at Extendicare and to Dr. DiTullio for their care and compassion. Cremation will take place with a private celebration of life at a later time. In lieu of flowers, remembrance donations to Bird Studies Canada, may be made directly at http://www.birdscanada.org/ would be greatly appreciated. Funeral arrangements and cremation services have been entrusted with LESSARD-STEPHENS FUNERAL HOME. Online condolences or donations can be made at www.lessardstephens.com