Helene Vandenberghe (Sokolsky)
Rochester: Peacefully on August 28, 2013, age 90. Helene was predeceased by her parents, eight siblings and two husbands.
She is survived by her three children, Mari Saytes (Tom), Eric Sokolsky (Lisa), Robert Sokolsky (Lesa) and two grandchildren, Morgan Saytes and Amy Waldrop, as well as many friends and relatives.
Born in Lowell, MA and a Navy WAVE in WWII, Helene was a loving wife to Peter Sokolsky for 32 years and George Vandenberghe for 20. After raising her children in Rochester and retiring from DePaul Mental Health, for many years she split her time between Clearwater FL and Kennebunkport ME; more recently residing in Henrietta NY when not in FL. Helene was the epitome of lovable and had a way of making everyone she met feel good about themselves. She was polite in the best possible way and kind without being self-deprecating which charmed everyone – even TSA agents! Always trying to do her best in any situation and open to new experiences, Helene was the ultimate "good sport" – even when she wasn't playing bocce!
Blue skies with white fluffy clouds and trees with straight trunks delighted Helene, who knew the value of simple pleasures. Devoted wife, loving mother/grandmother, cherished aunt and treasured friend, Helene will be missed by all whose lives she touched.
The family will receive friends Tuesday September 3rd from 4-7 PM at the New Comer Funeral Home, 6 Empire Blvd. Rochester. Helene's funeral Mass will be held at 12:00 PM on Wednesday, September 4th at St. Ann's Chapel, 1500 Portland Ave, Rochester. Interment to follow at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.
If you wish to make a donation in Helene's name please consider the incomparable Henrietta Senior Center, 515 Calkins Rd, Rochester, NY 14623
or
The Leo Center for Caring (VNS Hospice) at St. Ann's.