Helen L. Minarik
Jun 7, 1924 – May 30, 2017
Helen L. (Caniglia) Alberico Minarik was preceded in death by her parents: Joseph and Lucia Caniglia; husbands, Joseph Alberico and Bernard J. Minarik; son, Michael E. Minarik; brothers: Samuel P. Caniglia, Rosario “Cy” Caniglia, and Louis J. Caniglia, sisters, Fena (Caniglia) Vendetti and Tina (Caniglia) Fatte.
She is survived by her children: Marguerite C. “Marmeek” Lukowski, Bernard J. Minarik, and Maureen L. “Nina” Steward; 12 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews.
For years Mother told us she absolutely did not want a wake, funeral mass, or even newspaper announcement. Not only that, she wanted everything to be done in no more than two days! It took us awhile to accept that we had to follow her wishes. We did, however, find a way to compromise with her, by having a “wake/birthday” party on her birthday last year, in 2016. We invited everyone we thought would have attended her funeral. We had a wonderful day, and she talked about it for months afterward. She was able to see all of her family, people she wouldn’t ordinarily see except at a wedding or funeral. She loved you all dearly, and we are so grateful to everyone who attended—she cherished the memories of her “wake/birthday” and carried them with her throughout this last year of her life.
Having a private graveside service followed by a small family luncheon is a compromise we think she would be “ok” with, so there will be a GRAVESIDE SERVICE on Friday, June 2nd at 10:30am at Calvary Cemetery. A family luncheon at The Eagles Club, 20276 Wirt St. in Elkhorn, NE will follow the service.
7 Comments
A great lady who will be greatly missed by her family. I have great memories of her from her tricks with Nina, laughing with her grandkids, swimming in her apartment pool and awesome spaghetti sauce ! Fly high Mrs. Minarik and keep them in line up there ?
I smile when I think of Mrs. Minarik. She has raised a wonderful family! What a blessing. She will be missed. She is smiling down with her husband and at peace. ???
My son said it best, he described Aunt Helen as “a jovial soul”. We will miss her laughter and her teasing. We remember how she and her sisters laughed hilariously as they played cards, shared stories of the past and enjoyed a meal together.. We are blessed to have had her in our lives, and heaven is surely a brighter spot now that she is there to liven things up.
She was my Aunt Helen and having her and Uncle Bernie in my life was an honor. I was blessed to be part of their family. Mike, Carole, Bernie, and Nina made my life fuller and filled with love. Aunt Helen always made me feel loved. She was more than the best pasta and pizza, much more than that. She was a model of
good parenting, family values, and keeping love at the center of your families. Her children will keep her fire burning and for this I am thankful. Aunt Helen go forward and enjoy. Cut the deck.
Nina, Nancy, Jason, Randy, Maureen & family-
We are so sorry for your loss! I know how important Helen was to all of you. She was such a doll and will be dearly missed. I will never forget meeting her at baseball….she put a smile on all of our faces. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of you during this difficult time.
I realized today I never knew “mother’s” first name. I feel blessed to have heard great “mother” stories being shared by Nina. I am so sorry you have lost this incredible matriarch but know her memory and stories will forever fill your hearts with joy and laughter.
my thoughts and prayers are with you all, so many great memories. God Bless!!
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