Shani (Helpert) MacIntosh

With profound sadness and enduring love, we announce the passing of Shani, who left us far too early at the age of 56 after a short, fierce and courageous battle with cancer. Shani was a radiant soul - vibrant, intelligent, remarkably funny, tenacious and generous. To know her was to recognize a special sparkle that left an indelible mark on everyone she met.

Shani’s greatest treasure in life was her family. She was the beloved wife of Bradley and the passionately proud mother of her two children, Aiden and Kenzie. She always wanted to be a mom, and she held this role with love, honour, commitment and pride. Shani will also be missed by Frankie, her devoted four-legged best friend.

Shani shared unique and special bonds with her mother Roslyn Trotter (Ivan Trotter), her late father Stanley Helpert (Elaine Orfus) and her two older sisters, Kelli (Darren Wagman) and Stacey (Joey Milstone). Shani was also a cherished auntie to Ari, Leah, Owen, Emmett and Marlo, always their cheerleader.   

Shani’s love extended deeply into her community of friends. She was a dedicated and loyal confidante who nurtured and maintained meaningful, long-lasting relationships with her closest circle who meant the world to her. Her home was always open to all, creating a welcoming and comforting space consistently filled with laughter, fun, delicious food, good conversation and great memories.

Throughout her life, Shani was also defined by her determination and resilience. She possessed a powerful mindset that allowed her to conquer any personal or professional goal that she set her mind to. When faced with her cancer diagnosis, she took on that fight with that same perspective, dedication and unmatched fortitude.
We love you dearly, Shani, and we don’t need to wish for it – we know your memory will always be a blessing to all of us who were lucky enough to be in your life.

A graveside funeral open to everyone will be held at Pine Ridge Memorial Gardens, B’nai Shalom V’Tikvah Garden Section, 1757 Church St N, Ajax, Ontario on Monday, June 15 at 1:30 pm. For those who cannot attend the funeral service, a livestream will be made available. A Shiva and Celebration of Life will follow at Shani’s family home at 7 Richard Butler Drive, Ashburn (Whitby) until 5:00 pm and from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm on Monday. The Shiva will resume the following day, Tuesday, June 16, from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm and from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

In memory of Shani, and in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Lung Cancer Canada or NanKIND.

Friends are invited to send condolences by visiting www.lowandlow.ca