Obituary - Amara Welford (Hellman)

Sometimes a student changes you for the better. They make you a better teacher. They make you appreciate the little things in life. They put a smile on your face even when they have moved on from your classroom. Amara did this for me. The day that she walked into my classroom at St. Mary’s, she was able to make me smile; to appreciate everything within the classroom, as well as beyond. She had this aura that made me see the good in everything. From the time she started singing, while doing her work at her desk, which inspired the class to join in, to the last part of her journey, she radiated a presence; one that I will forever admire. She was the most thankful, most pleasant, and most beautiful girl; inside and out. When you saw Amara, you could not help but smile. Amara changed my life and this world for the better and although her time on earth wasn't long, it was meaningful. I believe her impression will be an inspiration for all that knew her. Rest in peace beautiful girl.

I have no words to express my sorrow for your family at this time. Amara was a special lady and I will never forget her.

I’m so sad your beautiful girl left you so soon. Prayers for your family Chuck and Denise and for her husband.

When Amara was around, you could not help but smile. She acknowledged everyone and you always felt welcome in her presence. There will be no one like Amara. We were all blessed if we got to know her.

Chuck, Denise and Mark, our heart felt condolences on the loss of beautiful Amara. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time. Amara is now in the arms of Jesus, healed and whole.

Denise, Chuck, & Mark,
Amara was a breath of fresh air when she walked into a room, she was radiant with her smile, her kindness, her thoughtfulness, and her engaging eyes. She was easy to be around, but not easy to forget. Easily one of the truest gems to grace the halls of Monsignor McCoy HS and one of the truest gems in my teaching career. Thank you for sharing her with us. Praying for your family.

Amara was always an absolute joy to be around, whether working behind the scenes on a brand new musical, or in class at the university. She brought with her an infectious energy that could brighten anyone’s day. Rest in peace to this amazing person, and my condolences to her family during this difficult time.

It is with a very heavy heart that I express sincere condolences to her family & friends. May everyone cherish her treasured memories. Rest in peace beautiful girl🙏🏼

Our deepest condolences to you at this time. Amara was a beautiful person inside and out.

It was a privilege to know this amazing, funny, courageous lady. She brought light into a room and always brought a smile to everyone in her presence.
She was the strongest person I have ever known.
My thoughts are with her family and her amazing husband, Eric.
Heaven is a better place today.
Rest in peace Amara and thank you for your friendship.

Eric, Mike, Michelle, Denise & Chuck
We are so sorry for your loss. You are all in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Steve and Maureen

I will never forget the joy that Amara exuded. Her beauty, laugh and love were present in all she did. She was such a talent and I was honoured to have had her in my life. My condolences to Eric, Chuck, Denise and Mark. May the beautiful memories of Amara comfort you as you go through this dark time. Love to all. Deborah and Alan Deans

I'm so sorry to hear of Amara's passing. My sympathy goes to you Denise, Chuck, Mark and Gramma Iris.
May she rest in peace.
Shirley Bymoen

Deepest, heartfelt condolences to you all. I had the honour of teaching Amara at Monsignor McCoy High School. Amara truly was a beautiful person inside and out. My kids, Logan and Leigha still remember the day Amara entertained them while I attended a meeting at St. Mary’s School. She had such a fun and caring connection with kids. Her wonderful spirit will live on.

Amara was truly a wonderful young woman with a beautiful smile and soul. We are so incredibly sorry for your loss. She will be missed by all of the people who were blessed to know her.

Our deepest condolences to the families . Way too young. 😢🙏🤗💕

There are no words to express our utmost sincere condolences in the passing of your beautiful daughter. Thinking of you. Keith & Anita Winzer

Denise, Chuck, Mark and Eric, and families,
Please accept our deepest condolences in the loss of your beloved Amara. We didn’t know her well, but Nick knew her a little and spoke of what an outstanding and wonderful young woman she was. You will all be in our prayers.
Most sincerely,
Tanys and Murray Kush

Amara was a young lady who lit up a room whenever she was in it. She was one of the kindest, talented, humble, most joyful young ladies I’ve had the pleasure of teaching. She had the voice of an Angel. I remember her singing O Holy Night, it was the most beautiful singing of this song I had ever heard. She inspired other young singers and was always encouraging and full of praise for others. She is gone too young and will never be forgotten. My deepest condolences to her husband, family and friends 💜🦋

Sincere condolences. May your vibrant memories of Amara help you find strength in the days ahead.

Amara lit up my classroom every time she entered it. I feel blessed for having known her. It breaks my heart knowing that this beautiful soul has been taken. Eric, Chuck, Denise and Mark you have been so blessed to have such a wonderful wife , daughter and sister. My thoughts are with you all at this difficult time.

We are absolutely heartbroken and send all our love from Australia to Eric, Denise, Chuck, Mark, Michele, Mike and all of Amara’s family and many friends. It was an privilege to have known Amara and we will forever miss her infectious energy and humour. We love you Amara, rest in peace beautiful lady ❤️

Even though I left Alberta over ten years ago now Amara remained a close friend! She was a truly caring person and a special once in a lifetime human being. My heart and prayers go out to her family and friends in this difficult time

Dear Denise and Family,
I cannot imagine the loss and grief you are feeling. You now have a beautiful angel watching down on you. I sincerely hope , with time your beautiful memories and deep faith will help guide you through this grief. My prayers and thoughts. Big hugs.
Marg

So deeply sorry for your loss. Sending all of our love ❤️

Chuck, Denise, Mark and Erik
Words cannot express our heartfelt sadness for you during this difficult time of loss. Amara was a beautiful young woman who touched the lives of so many. May your precious memories of Amara live forever in your hearts and give you strength through the days ahead.

Denise & family,
There are no words that adequately express our feelings in your loss.
Cherish your memories, hold them close & know that Amara is at peace & her spirit is always with you.
Our sincerest condolences.
Bob & Gail Graham

So sorry for your families. Such a beautiful lady, with a wonderful heart. Sending our deepest condolences... Take care.

I worked with Amara at Lonepine pizza back in 2013.

Amara is one of those people who played a short role in my life, a bright shooting star in my early adulthood. Summer 2013 was a transformative summer in my life and I will never forget it, and the role Amara played it in.

I remember her sitting on the ground taking pickles out of a huge bucket with tongs, and laughing at how absurd it was. We planned a Lord of the Rings movie night with another colleague and we laughed for the last forty minutes of the movie because of how many different “endings” the movie had.

I was 20 then and Amara was 14, which at the time felt like a massive age difference. I remember her telling me that it somewhat baffled her family that I wanted to hang out with her - but the feelings were genuine and I always looked forward to when we worked together. I remember thinking that if anybody I knew personally would ever become famous it would be her - so bright, talented and performative.

It comes as no surprise to me that Amara has very many friends and family that will miss her dearly. My deepest condolences to her husband, parents, brother and her closest friends. Her loss I imagine is the most profound experience of pain you will experience.

I'm so sorry to hear this sad news. Amara was a wonderful person and I very much enjoyed having her in my Drama courses at the University of Lethbridge. My sincere condolences to her family.

What a beautiful, young soul, taken way too early. Sing with the Angels Amara.
Our thoughts are with your family.
Michelle & Sydney Freeman

My deepest and sincere condolences to Chuck, Denise, Mark and Eric, such a beautiful lady. Sending you all my love and thinking of you at this time.
Love - Aunt Marlene

Working with kids, you often meet one child that always seems to put a smile on your face, even thinking of them many years later. I shall cherish each memory of Amara, the twinkle in her eye, her amazing smile and of course her many stories! Chuck, Denise and family may your happy memories carry you through this difficult time.

Chuck, Denise, Mark and Eric. We are so sad to hear about Amara’s passing. Our prayers have been with you and we will continue to lift up our prayers for you during this difficult time… sometimes there are no words❤️🙏

Brent and I were saddened to hear of Amara’s passing. We are sending our sincerest sympathies to you, Chuck and Denise, Mark, and Eric. There is a new angel in heaven. May she rest in peace.

I grew up dancing ballet with Amara, and her presence was always one that brought joy and comfort into the room. No matter how hard of a day I had, getting to go to dance and see her was a highlight of my week. Any tears, would quickly turn into laughter with Amara around. I pray you are sitting with Jesus right now beautiful girl, and that He’s giving you the biggest hug. I pray comfort for all Amara’s wonderful family during this time.

Chuck, Denise & Family: Our deepest Sympathy on the loss of your Beautiful Amara. Our thoughts & prayers are with You.

Emily & Murray Haubrich

Dear Chuck, Denise, Mark, Eric, Michele, Mike and all the extended family of Amara.
Sometimes a miracle we pray for isn't the miracle we receive. That your beautiful girl is now free of pain forever and experiencing her heavenly reward be comforting to you. The pain you feel is shared by so many who loved her and all her family.
Your own beautiful angel will always be with you and watching over you.
Our hearts are so sad for you. Sending thoughts and prayers for all of your family and our love for you.

I'm so very sorry for your loss. Praying for you during this very sad time.

I was so sad to hear of Amara’s passing! I got to know her at Mother Teresa After School program. She always greeted you with a huge smile, always kind and thoughtful and funny! She will truly be missed by all! My condolences to your family Chuck and Denise and to her husband!

Dear Denise, Chuck, Mark, Eric and extended family,
Our sincere sympathy on the passing of Amara. May all your memories and the love from your family and friends comfort you thru this difficult time. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

To all the Hellman and Welford families,
I want to extend my deepest condolence at the loss of such a young and beautiful lady! Such a loss!!!! I pray our Lord gives you peace and comfort! Be sure of my prayers for all of you!!!🙆‍♀️❤️

Sincere condolences to Denise, Chuck and family with the loss of your beautiful daughter. May your wonderful memories of Amara comfort you in the difficult days ahead.

Denise & Chuck, and families:
I am so, so sad to see that your beautiful daughter met out Lord at such an incredibly young age. My heart is with you through this most devastating and heartbreaking time in your lives. Please know you are all in my prayers. Rest in Peace Beautiful Amara.🙏🏻

Denise, Chuck and Families,
Our deepest sympathies to you at the loss of your dear Amara. May the memories of your remarkable daughter comfort you. You are in our prayers.

Just so sad to hear of Amara’s passing. Denise, Chuck, Mark and Eric our thoughts are with you and all the friends and family that will be gathering to celebrate Amara’s life. We were so lucky we got to watch the Shaunovan parade with Amara this summer. Can’t help but think she was wishing she was the one throwing candy! She was a great kid.

Sending you our heartfelt condolences. Amara made the most of the time she was granted and touched many lives over the years.
Catherine, Andrew and Carly Sivasankar
Larry and Marie Elke

Eric, Denise, Chuck, Mark. Our prayers are with you. We had the wonderful opportunity to be marriage mentors with Amara and Eric in preparation for their wedding. Our meetings with Amara and Eric were filled with stories, laughter and at times, serious discussion with all of the above led by Amara’s vibrant and intoxicating personality. Despite our attempts to keep the discussion about pending married life Amara often took us off on a variety of subjects that simply were far more interesting. We couldn’t help but fall in love with Amara and Eric. We are so grateful to know them and truly believe that Amara is no doubt leading the conversation in heaven. Blessings and prayers to all Amara’s family, friends and loves ones.

You are in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless and help you through this.
Connie, Darrell, Jordan & Shawn Koch

Sorry for your loss. Our thoughts are with you at this time.

Amara was a bright light that did indeed leave a lasting impression. Her expressive animation while conveying a story or situation was truly delightful and engaging on and off the stage.

We will forever cherish the many times spent gathering our families together. Camping trips out at Cypress Hills, New Year’s Eve parties at the Hellman family acreage, birthday parties, barbecues, etc. What precious times that so often we all take for granted. Amara was a friend to our girls from birth and the special memories accumulated over the years will forever be locked away in our hearts. Oh how we will miss beautiful, precious Amara Marie. Sending our deepest condolences, love and unwavering friendship and support.

Kal, Judy, Capri and Sophia Koch

Chuck & family. My deepest sympathies to you & your family at this difficult time. Please know I am praying for you and your family. Gone way too soon. May she RIP 🙏🏻

Amara was such a beautiful and vibrant young lady. May you find comfort in all the special memories you have with her. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

We are deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Amara. It was always a treat to watch Amara perform in the many art forms that she was so talented in. Her beautiful voice is now still on earth but we have no doubt that she is singing and performing up in heaven where she is now with our heavenly Father.
Our sincere condolences to Denise, Chuck and family. We pray that Gods comfort and peace will surround you in this difficult time.

We are so shocked to read this, we are so sorry for your loss & pray the memories you hold dear will help you through the tough days ahead.

Chuck and Denise and family,
I didn’t know Amara, but my heart breaks for your loss. I know that she couldn’t have had a better family to support her through this very difficult journey. May God give you continued strength and healing as you move forward, knowing she is at rest. With heartfelt sympathy! 🥰

Chuck Denise, Mark and Eric,
We were incredibly sad to hear of Amara’s passing. From the first time we met her we remember how her smile lit up the room. She was a truly joyous young lady, gifted and talented in so many ways.
She will be so sadly missed as she brought joy to all who knew her.
Offering our deepest condolences to Chuck, Denise, Mark, Eric and extended family.
Love Joe and Claire

Our deepest sympathies to Amara's family. Although I have never met Amara, I feel that I've gotten to know her a bit through her Grandma Grace and her Auntie Diane. She sounded like a brave and wonderful girl. We will pray for you all.

Our deepest sympathy in the loss of your beautiful Amara. I remember her at Mother Teresa School always with a smile on her face and as happy as could be. I remember seeing her in a grocery store years later and she ran over to me and gave me a hug. I will remember that hug! She will be missed by all who knew her.

The MHC Girls' Choir would like to extend it's deepest sympathies to the Hellman and Welford families. Amara's spirit and voice was a blessing to our choir. Her voice lives on inside of all us who knew her.
Justine Wilks

My sincerest and most heartfelt condolences to all Amara's family, the Hellman's as well as to her husband Eric and the Welford family. Words cannot express the sadness in my heart. Sending healing prayers and comfort to you all during this difficult time. May you find peace in the wonderful memories!

We are so sorry to learn of Amara's passing and our hearts and prayers go out to the Welford and Hellman families. Amara briefly joined our staff as a PSII/III practicum student at the University of Lethbridge in the Faculty of Education. Prior to her practicum starting in September of 2022, she needed to defer the semester to look after her health. We did have the great pleasure of meeting her in June to discuss her plans and to hear about what made her excited as a teacher. She had a light about her that one doesn't quickly forget and she exemplified what every aspiring teacher should be: passionate, enthusiastic and committed. Even from that brief time meeting her and hearing of her plans, I have no doubt that Amara would have made an excellent teacher and influenced the lives of countless students and their families through arts education. It was a blessing to have her connected to our school. On behalf of all of us at St. Patrick Fine Arts Elementary, I offer our sincere condolences and pray for God's comforting arms open another like Him - an amazing teacher.

Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this time, and always.

Barb & Curt Moll

Chuck, Denise and Mark
We are so sorry to hear about Amara’s passing. We remember her at all the school performances during elementary to high school. Our sincere condolences to you all.

Dear Chuck, Denise, Mark, Eric and family,

We are so very sorry for your heartbreaking loss. Amara touched many lives and brought joy to all of those that knew her. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you ❤️

To Chuck, Denise, Mark, Eric, Grandpa and Grandma Charles and Grace, and all the other family with whom we are not acquainted, we extend our condolences and pray that God gives you strength as you suffer your loss of a beautiful soul, Amara. As I've read some of the tributes to your angel, I've realized how much Amara obviously meant to so many people in such a short life. May she rest in peace, free from pain.

Denise, Chuck and family, We are so very sorry to hear of Amara’s passing. You are all in our thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time. May all your precious memories bring you comfort in the days ahead.
Rachael McGean and Dave McDonald.

Eric - Denise, Chuck & family - Michelle, Mike & family:
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time of losing such a young, vibrant person whom you all loved dearly! Life is short and precious! I did not know Amara, but I know how hard it is to see them suffer and lose a young person who is full of life, and has their life snuffed out pre-maturely! She is in a better place - no more pain or suffering! Rest in peace!
Marge Ensminger
Curtis & Jan

I remember Amara as an elementary student who brought joy, creativity and laughter to the classroom. Thoughts and prayers are with you all at this most difficult time.

Oh my gosh Denise, Chuck and Mark😞 my deepest deepest condolences to you and the entire family as well as Amara’s husband. There are truly NO WORDS of comfort during this very devastating time😪 sending HUGE HUGS & healing thoughts and prayers to you all🙏❤️ I’m so very sorry Denise and Chuck😞🥰

“Our revels now have ended…
…We are such stuff
As dreams are made on, and our little life
Is rounded with a sleep”
From THE TEMPEST, Act 4 Scene 1 by William Shakespeare

In the context of eternal time all human life is short or “little”. It is not how long one lives, but HOW well one lives, and Amara lived her short time to the fullest. Amara loved many and was loved by many in return.
Sleep well sweet child. Rest in peace.

We are deeply sorry to hear about the passing of Amara. There are no words that can adequately express the pain and sadness of such a loss. Our hearts go out to you and your family during this unimaginably difficult time. Please know that you have our deepest condolences Francesca, Tim and Anna

When I reflect upon Amara, I am reminded of the time when I taught her at St. Francis. She had the most beautiful voice and could match pitch with excellence. I also remember her smile and contagious laughter and how the mention of Amara's name would bring joy to Chuck's face. She truly was daddy's girl. Chuck and Denise, you raised Amara with excellence, she grew into a beautiful person who achieved excellence and she suffered while emitting pure joy and love to others with excellence. Praying that the joy of the Lord would be your strength and the peace that surpasses all understanding would be upon you both as you remember her today and always. My deepest condolences. 🙏

Praying for you all that the peace of God that passes all understanding will envelop and hold you.

Chuck and Denise, Our hearts are heaving thinking of you as you go through this very difficult time as parents. May the strength of family, friends and prayer help you in your time of grieving. The few interactions we had with Amara, were definitely memorable. She truly did have a certain aura and charisma about her. She had the best positive energy and it was felt by those around her. Such a beautiful soul.
Hugs

Denis, Chuck, Mark, Eric and family.
I will always remember the bright light and love that your beautiful Amara shared with us all. I read somewhere that we must learn not to live without our loved one but live with the love they left behind. I like to think that her deep love and light will continue to shine on us all.

Denise, Chuck, Mark, Eric and family,
My sincere condolences on the passing of your sweet Amara. I will always remember the light, love and laughter your spunky little red head shared with us all. She was one of those special little people that I had the pleasure of teaching and getting to know in and outside of the classroom. She will continue to hold a special place in my teacher’s heart. I read somewhere that is not that we must learn not to live without our loved one but learn to live with the love they leave behind. ❤️. I like to think her beautiful, bright soul’s light continues to shine down upon you. 🌟

Chuck, Denise, and Mark,
We have just watched from Kelowna the beautiful service for your beautiful daughter Amara. She is now resting in the arms of God, whole and free from her suffering. May he also hold you in his arms for comfort and consolation. She will always be the crystal cup for all who knew and loved her. Our deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to you and the Welford family.

Dear Denise, Chuck, Mark and Eric,
Our loving thoughts, prayers, and heartfelt condolences are with each of you as you morn deeply the loss of your beloved Amara.
Yvonne & Will & girls

Denise, Chuck and Family,
Our most heartfelt sympathies on the loss of Amara. May the many wonderful memories of Amara comfort you in the days ahead. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Sending our deepest sympathies to the Hellman and Welford Families. So very sorry for your loss.

Dear Denise, Chuck, Mark and family…
There are no words to express the heartfelt sympathy we feel for you all in the loss of your precious Amara.
Hope the many beautiful memories you have of Amara will help to ease the sorrow and pain you feel at this time.
Verna and Delvin Moch

Chuck & Denise, Mark ,Eric and family, I am 😭 to hear the loss of your beautiful daughter Amara. My thoughts and 🙏 prayers are with during this difficult time🙏💞

Chuck, Denise and family,
Our heartfelt condolences to your family in the loss of your beautiful daughter.

Our sincerest condolences on your recent loss. May all your amazing family memories help you through this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Amara was an embodiment of light and joy. I met Amara when she was a student at Mother Teresa and she had a way of brightening every room with her presence. Her beautiful smile and sparkly personality, could put a put a smile on everyone’s face.

Sending prayers and my sincerest condolences to Chuck, Denise, and Eric.

Denise, Chuck, Mark and the Welford family

Incredibly sad to hear of Amara's passing. Thinking of you at this time.

Dear Chuck and Denise,

I was so saddened to hear of the passing of your precious daughter, Amara. I felt your breaking heart, and I could not hold back the tears. I know the ache in your heart that goes so deep. I know how you never want the day to end because you have to face the next day again without your beautiful daughter.

I had only met Amara once, but instantly knew there was something so special about her. Just like our precious Melanie that went to be with Jesus 14 years ago. She to had battled brain cancer. Why God chooses to take the most beautiful inside and out, we will never know until we meet Him in heaven.

I know that we don't really know each other but I felt so deeply about connecting with you both. I want you to know that I truly care so much about what you are going through. I want you to know that your broken heart does start to heal little by little. But it leaves behind scar tissue. The hurt will surface when you least expect it to, and the tears will flow. The saying time heals all is somewhat true, but they will always hold a very special place in our hearts.

I once read the following words, Grief never ends, but it changes. It's a passage, not a place to stay. Grief is not a sign of weakness, nor a lack of faith. It is the price of LOVE.

May you feel the presence of Jesus wrapping you with His loving, comforting arms. Much love and prayers, Donna Serr

Denise, Chuck & Mark - Eric and the Welford family - Charles & Grace & the Hellman family: I was so sad and sorry to learn of Amara’s passing. Although I did not know her, the comments reveal she was a bright light in the world. She brought joy and was loved by all who knew her. Please accept my sincere condolences for your loss. She will live on in your hearts forever. Sending you love, hugs and prayers to help heal all your hurt.

Karen Vossler

My dear Denise and Chuck—so sorry to hear the news regarding your daughter-sometimes the journeys we have to go on in life. are just so so difficult , but that journey has to be taken by all of us , I just want you both to know how sorry I am for you and just know you are in my healing prayers- God Bless all of you (Denise in case you don’t remember me I worked with you at the Medical Arts Clinic)

Dear Denise and family
I am so sorry about you losing your beautiful Amara. I know how proud you were of her loving personality and her talents. She had a big impact on many people. My wish is that you slowly heal your broken hearts. Time and family and friends are ready to help with that process. Sending my support.
Dee Cowan

Denise and Chuck,
I was devastated to read that your beautiful girl is gone. There are no words. Please know that you are in my thoughts.

Denise and Chuck,
We are so very sorry to read about Amara's passing. We want you to know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and hope that beautiful memories will bring you comfort during these difficult days. Don and Rosemarie Scarrow

Please accept our condolences.

Chuck, Denise, Mark, Eric and the Welford Family: May all the warm and special memories you shared with Amara stay with you and bring you comfort and strength through all the days ahead. Our sincerest condolences, Lloyd, Randeen & Carter Bray

Denise,
Even in your sorrow, I know that you will hold on to the thought that a life lived with so much love never really ends, but goes on forever in the hearts of those who remember.

I am thinking of you and your family during this difficult time while knowing that there are no words that can bring comfort or lessen the pain of losing Amara.

Memories that shine with tears today will always shine with LOVE forever.

Donna Dooley