Obituary of Helen M Stewart

Helen M. Stewart, born February 22, 1928, 92 glorious years old, died peacefully in her home in Oakland on Friday, November 27th. Helen’s parents, Katherine and Joseph Michalski, emigrated from Poland to Fairlawn, New Jersey. Helen was one of nine children. Helen and her family remained in Fairlawn where she graduated from Fairlawn High School. Helen married her high school sweetheart William Stewart on May 9, 1946 just prior to William being sent to Japan to serve on General McArthur’s Honor Guard during the reconstruction. Helen and William purchased and made their home in Oakland on June 18, 1954. Helen had three children she loved and adored Carolyn, Gary and Billy. Helen worked for Motorola in Glen Rock as an executive secretary for many years prior to retirement. Helen and William were married 62 years until William’s passing in 2008. Through her life, Helen enjoyed being surrounded by her family and friends. She loved the holidays when she would cook her feasts, which consisted of at least two entrees and a parade of side dishes, not to mention desserts or the often forgotten rolls in the oven. It made her happy to see everyone fat and full! Helen loved the Borough of Oakland. She was active in Our Lady of Perpetual Health Church and loved Father Lipnicki. She was an active community member. In her retirement years, Helen volunteered at the Oakland Senior Center and set up various trips and activities. She loved her Wednesday card games with the girls. She cherished the many loving friendships she developed over the years. Her neighbors in Oakland loved her back. Helen often spoke of their generosity and thoughtfulness. Although Chris and Don and Cindy and Matt thought her crazy to be standing on at ladder trimming trees at 90 years old! Helen developed a family bond with neighbors Pat and John, a truly loving relationship. Pat and John were Helen’s extended family. Helen is survived by her two sisters, Teresa and Joan and predeceased by her siblings, Michael, Victor, Joseph, Henry, Irene and Eleanor as well as her daughter Carolyn. She is survived by her two sons, Gary and Billy; 4 grandchildren, Eric, Kurt, Jeffrey, and Timmy; and 6 great grandchildren, Jake, Jaret, Nick, Julia, JT, and Joey. Helen cherished her mother-daughter like relationship with her niece Cathy and their countless hours of phone conversation. Viewing arrangements will be at the Oakland Memorial Home on Wednesday, Dec 2nd from 4p to 8p. Mass will be on Thursday, Dec 3rd at Our Lady of Perpetual Help at 11am. Helen requested in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Oakland First Aid Squad.