8 bells: Tribute to Helen Cuthbertson

Helen Cuthbertson

Nov 10, 2022

by JohnKelly Cuthbertson

Mom passed October 25 in her 88th year. Here is an article I wrote for International Women’s Day on her contribution to C&C.

C&C comes from Cuthbertson and Cassian. In the archiving of the history of George Harding Cuthbertson’s work, I’ve come across many names associated with the creation of the company and of my Dad’s legacy. There is scant reference to one of the important persons that worked from almost day one to make my Dad and C&C Yachts the success it became. Helen Isabelle Donaldson was born in Teeswater, a small farming community in southern Ontario into a large family.

As a young lady she moved to Toronto and worked for CIL chemical company on Eastern Avenue. Up for some adventure she moved to California with Joy, one of her girlfriends from work. There she worked for a brassiere salesman for almost 2 years before coming back to Toronto.

One summer evening, at a social gathering of sailors with her boyfriend, she stole another young man’s heart. The second date was a road trip to Meaford with George, Bernice and Dick Telford to see the progress of Inishfree. In 1959, they got married.

She became the support that GHC needed. Cooking meals for surprise guests at their house in Port Credit, and if those guests agreed over dessert, she would quickly type up a contract and another boat was sold. Michael, the first child was born while George was off sailing, GHC was sure to be home for Jill’s and my birth. Helen looked after us kids, taking us to camps, riding lessons and sports, maintaining the house for those surprise guests.

She was the support that Dad needed to build the company. And her contribution has never truly been recognized.

Love you Mom, thank you.

 

Related Articles


Sea Ray Launches the New SDX 250 and SDX 250 Surf

Sea Ray is expanding its next-generation SDX lineup with two new models. The dynamic SDX 250 and SDX 250 Surf blend quality, functionality and capability to provide limitless fun. Available in sterndrive and surf configurations, the vessels feature powerful propulsion, abundant storage, optimized seating and premium amenities to suit any aquatic activity. Whether entertaining or wakesurfing, the versatile SDX 250 is well-equipped with plenty of room for full days on the water with family and friends.

Read More


Destinations

Dockside Dining: Frind Winery

I’m a boater – I always take friends and visitors to Frind when we’re on the boat.

Frind Winery is the perfect place for boaters to go for lunch or dinner in the Kelowna area.  You can tie up on the dock or beach your pontoon on the spacious beach. 

Frind has an Italian style brick pizza oven for gourmet pizzas and a great selection of other menu items.  You can eat on the patio, at a picnic table, on the beach, or on the lawn. You can also get your order to go and enjoy your meal out on the lake. 

Read More