Helena Antionette Strand

Our beloved Toni died very suddenly from Acute Myeloblastic Leukemia on November 16, 2024. Her son Jay and husband John were with her continually for the five days she was receiving tender and professional care provided by HopeWest Hospice. 

Toni is survived by her husband John, son Jay, daughter Tara, Joe her son-in-law and her two grand-children, Etta and Henry. Tara and family all live in Christchurch, New Zealand. 

Toni was born in Los Angeles and is the second of five children, older sister Alanna, two younger brothers, Phil and Gene, and youngest sister Melissa, all of whom survive her. After completing High School Toni became a novice of the Sisters of Providence in Seattle, Washington. During her novitiate Toni studied and achieved her Bachelor of Nursing as well as a BA in social work at the Catholic Jesuit University of Seattle. In these formative years she developed a deep relationship with God which would guide her as she made her way through life. 

Although her spirituality would remain her most defining attribute, after several years Toni left the convent wanting to have a different journey in life. She pursued a nursing career that included over 30 years in hospitals and clinics. After retiring, Toni gave much of herself to volunteering for different organizations, including Catholic Outreach in Grand Junction for another 25 years. She served every Wednesday and at other times as the first point of contact for the poor and indigent who required the charity’s services. Some were in crisis situations, others were hungry and others just needed a hand up. Toni’s philosophy was “I have been blessed all my life; it is time to give back. We are all in this journey together - that is my mission right now.” 

 For her husband John, whom Toni met on a blind date, Toni was his best friend and confidante for more than 52 years. For her children, she was a guiding light who gave her very best for their welfare. She was always for them with words, prayers and comforting actions. 

Toni’s passing will be felt by the many she touched in the greater Grand Junction community during her time with us. A celebration of Toni's life will be held at a later date. 

For our family, my Toni and our Mom is already greatly missed. 

Memorials may be made to Catholic Outreach of Grand Junction or to HopeWest of Grand Junction.