Helena Martens Linn

Helena Martens Age 85, died September 7, 2001 at Schuyler Hospital, Montour Falls, NY; of cancer. She was born October 30, 1915, in the Russian Ukraine to Johann and Sarah Martens, educated strict German Mennonites. The family moved often; Helena attended school in four countries, including three Canadian provinces, becoming a citizen of Russia, then Canada and the United States. Helena became the dental nurse in charge of the dental department at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Montreal for three years and then became a registered nurse, establishing her lifelong interest and commitment to the field of medicine. She adored doctors and nurses. She moved to Manhattan and was taking courses in dietetics at Columbia University when she met Willis Linn of Glenora. After a whirlwind ten-week courtship, they married and moved to Edenglen, the Linns' family estate on the shores of Seneca Lake. Together, they established a Newfoundland kennel whose dogs became international legends. One-fourth of the Newfoundlands in the ring at Westminister in the late 1960's carried the Edenglen prefix. The dog world found the way to Edenglen to share Helena's and Bill's hospitality and expertise. Their guests often left with a selection of cards exquisitely decorated by Helena. Throughout their travels, especially to the places where Helena had lived, Helena bore herself with the stately grace and love of people that earned her the affectionate title Duchess of Edenglen. Helena was predeceased by her husband, Willis Linn. One hundred and fifty years of the Linn dynasty at Glenora ended with her death. She will be loved and missed by her two sisters, Mary Martens and Neta Gallagher; and one brother, Louis Martens from Canada, one niece and several nephews. Her family thanks the nurses and doctors at Schuyler Hospital for the wonderful care she received. The prompt and professional service of the Dundee Ambulance Association in all kinds of weather was very much appreciated. A memorial service will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers contributions in her memory may be made to the Falk Cancer Center in Elmira, NY and to the Dundee Ambulance Association. Arrangements entrusted to the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen, NY.