Diamond Pool & Spa’s Helen Strangos passes away

Sadly, Helen Strangos passed away in December, following a three-year battle with lung cancer.

Helen started working in the pool industry more than 35 years ago, working in the office of Brian Huxham’s Prestige Pools. When Brian passed away unexpectantly, the business was wound up. Helen Strangos and Maurice Romero saw a golden opportunity and made an offer to buy the business.

Together they turned Diamond Pool & Spa into one of the most successful pool shops in Melbourne.

Helen was renowned in Melbourne for her dedication to the pool industry and to SPASA, and was often on award judging panels. She was also a strong supporter of training programs for general industry education.

Helen was a stalwart for professionalism and an inspirational leader and this shines through her staff today. Her business acumen is evident in the success of Diamond Pool and Spa, a business she shared with husband Arthur and Romero.

She made friends easily and people all over the world are mourning her loss.

Bronnie Wallis of Focus Products says that Helen was more than a client, becoming a very good friend over the years.

“She ran a tight ship and had high expectations of her staff, but evoked total loyalty. Testimony to that strategy are the long-term staff and client base that remain to this day. She will be greatly missed within the industry,” says Wallis.

Peter (PJ) Zukowski of PJ Pool and Spas says that Helen was always very easy to get along with.

“She was welcoming and always willing to provide guidance. She was very interested in all facets of the pool industry,” he says.

Chris Papa from Maytronics says the world has lost an amazing human being.

“I had the pleasure of dealing with Helen for over 20 years,” he says. “A fiercely loyal customer that turned into a good very good friend. Helen was never scared to tell you her thoughts and where she stood which is what I loved most about her. She was extremely easy to deal with and had integrity in all that she did. The pool industry is worse off without Helen Strangos and she will be sorely missed. RIP beautiful woman.”

Helen was farewelled on a bright December day in a joyful and moving tribute by family, friends and industry representatives.

Everyone at SPLASH! offers their heartfelt condolences to Arthur, Georgiana, Alexandra and Katherine, and to her business partner Maurice Romero and family.