Obituary of Helen Tupaj

Helen J. Tupaj 1922 – 2018 Utica Helen J. (Fendley) Tupaj, 96, a lifelong area resident passed away peacefully on, Thursday, August 23, 2018 at Faxton – St. Luke's Healthcare. She was born in New York Mills on May 15, 1922, the daughter of Peter and Mary Gronkewicz Knych. On August 12, 1951, she was united in marriage to Jack A. Fendley in St. Mary's Church, New York Mills, until his passing on December 4, 1975. Helen was later united into marriage to John F. Tupaj on February 14, 1980 in St. Stanislaus Church until his passing on October 13, 2012. She was employed by the General Electric Co. for many years and the Sambro Meat Packing Co. until her retirement in 1987. She was a parishioner of Our Lady of the Rosary Church. Helen was the most devoted, caring and giving Mother and Nan we could have ever been blessed with. She always spoke her mind and you were sure to get her honest opinion. Helen will always be remembered for her sense of style and love of fashion. Home and family were the center of her life. She is survived by her daughter, Shelley Teachout and her husband Steve Teachout, of Whitesboro, four grand children , Thomas Lazio (Taylor), Andrew Teachout (Marissa), Christopher Teachout (Caroline), and Matthew Teachout (Christina). Helen is also survived by several nieces and nephews who always took the time to remember her, especially acknowledging, Geraldine Pietras. She was predeceased by several brothers and sisters. Relatives and friends are invited to attend her Memorial Mass of Christian Burial which will be celebrated on Saturday, September 15, 2018 at 10 a.m. at the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, 1736 Burrstone Rd., New Hartford. There will be no calling hours. Burial will take place in St. Stanislaus & Casimir Cemetery. In memory of Helen, please consider a donation to the charity of one's choice. Light a Candle at: www.kowalczykfuneralhomes.com