Helena T. (Wolkowicz) Bodzioch of New Bedford and Centerville, beloved wife, mother, grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully in her daughter’s arms on August 5, 2015. She would have celebrated her 86th birthday on August 10th. Born in New Bedford, she was the daughter of the late Jan and Teresa (Adamczyk) Wolkowicz.
Helena graduated from New Bedford High School Class of 1947 and the University of Massachusetts/Amherst, followed by a dietary internship at New York Hospital’s Cornell Medical Center. She worked at St. Luke’s dietary department for many years and then became a special needs teacher at Lincoln School for twenty years, enriching the lives of those children less fortunate. Upon retirement, she joined her husband in growing their uniform rental company today known as Clean Uniforms and More! She was also a member of the Polish Women’s Business and Professional Club.
A selfless, incredibly giving and talented woman, Helena showered her family and friends with unconditional love. She was proud of her Polish heritage and taught her children the importance of family traditions. She was an amazing cook, loved to knit, sew, and was happiest in the sun tending to her Centerville garden. Her intricate homemade Christmas ornaments will bring joy and comfort to her family for years to come. She was an inspiration to all and will be greatly missed.
Helena’s family extends their heartfelt love and thanks to Arminda Areias and Alda Vital for their compassionate, gentle and dignified care of Helena during her final journey. Also, Helena’s family wish to extend their gratitude to Dr. Robert Sawyer for his many years of kindness and attention to her needs.
Helena is survived by Alvin her husband of nearly 59 years; daughter Gail Bodzioch Kelleher and her husband Dennis of Rocky Hill, CT; son Mark Bodzioch of New Bedford; daughter Ann Bodzioch Bojack and her fiancé Michael Robinson of Fairhaven; cherished grandchildren Alexa and John Bocciarelli of Rocky Hill, CT; brother John S. Wolkowicz and his wife Hertha; sister-in-law Eileen (Bodzioch) Desroches; and six loving nieces and nephews.
Helena was a communicant of The Parish Family of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church. Her Funeral Mass and Burial were attended by her immediate family on Saturday under the direction of the Saunders–Dwyer Home for Funerals. A Mass to celebrate our Angel’s life and legacy will take place at a later date. To honor this amazing woman, her family asks that you perform an act of kindness or make a donation to a charity of your choice in Helena’s memory. For online condolence book, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.