Newington Obituary: Helene Sands-Proulx, 55

Helene Sands-Proulx was born on November 21, 1960, daughter of Alan and Risa Sands. She died peacefully, but not without her usual spirited fight, on March 25, 2016.

Helene graduated from Brandeis University with a B.A. in English and spent much of her life writing, working in advertising, creating non-profit newsletters and sending confrontational letters to assorted politicians. Helene spent much of her life taking on challenges and fighting for causes...with a vengeance. She was proud to be a "rabble rouser".

Helene also graduated from North Shore Community College in 1988 with an Associate degree in Nursing. She spent her life not just caring for others, but rather touching others. She was proud to be an individual who made a positive difference in other people's lives. She wants to be remembered for her compassion, determination and sense of humor.

She leaves behind her husband Earl Proulx, 3 Step sons Robert Proulx, David Proulx, and Jason Proulx, 1 daughter-in-law, both parents, 1 sister Debbie and a multitude of nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and many devoted friends.

Helene was a big NASCAR fan cheering for Jeff Gordon and Cheering for the UConn Woman's Basketball team.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to your local humane society or other animal rescue, to Klass Kids Foundation or to the worthwhile charity of your choice.

Earl would also like to thank The Hartford Health Care At Home Hospice Care Team, The Staff at 5C of The Hospital of Central Connecticut who were a big help in this time of need.

As you all know, I hate to miss a good party, so I am here in spirit. I understand the tears, but I would prefer if you would all think about how damn funny I have always been, and instead, have a good laugh. Make this a celebration of my life rather than a total bummer assembly. Gather together and share stories of my crazy antics and some of the ridiculous things I have said over the years. Remember the wedding and my costume change into my wild Cher outfit. It would have been even funnier, or maybe scary, if I actually sang the song "I've Got you Babe" instead of lip synced in with Earl. And then there was one of those protest arrests when I started singing on the corrections bus "The Wheels on the Bus", right before I asked the corrections' driver what time we get to the casino and if he wanted my pocket knife. Now that was funny! Life is short and there is no good reason to make it miserable. Make it fun and positive and always forgiving.

Fifty Five is perhaps young to leave this earth, but my life has been wonderful and blessed. I have been lucky to have a beautiful family and a large circle of true, lifetime friends. I leave this world with no regrets.

Relatives and friends are welcome to call on Friday, April 1, from 5:00 until 8:00 PM at Duksa Family Funeral Homes at Newington Memorial, 20 Bonair Ave, Newington, with a celebration service taking place at 6:00 PM during visitation.