Helen (Warynycia) Barna

Helen Barna, a lifelong resident of Cohoes, died on September 27th at the age of 103. She was born on July 19, 1920, to Magdalina Bereza Warynycia and Kyrlo Warynycia. Helen's life was a tapestry woven with threads of love, adventure, and cherished memories.

Helen attended School No. 4 and Cohoes High School. At age 16, she took on her first job at the N&S Shirt Factory in Cohoes, laying the foundation for a strong work ethic that would shape her life.

Helen married John Barna at St. Peter & St. Paul Church on August 16, 1947. Together, they embarked on a lifetime journey, which included raising their beloved daughter, Marcia.

As a young girl, Helen was known as a tomboy, but as time passed she discovered her passion for cooking, particularly Ukrainian dishes such as halupki and perogies. Her culinary talents were rivaled only by her skill in crocheting, where she created numerous beautiful afghans and doilies. Helen and her husband also shared a love for camping, making cherished memories with family and friends beneath the stars.

Helen's professional life took her to Williams Press in Menands, where she worked for 26 years in the business office after earning a degree from comptometer school. Her retirement ushered in what she often referred to as her greatest role – caring for her two granddaughters, Michele and Susan, with boundless love and devotion.

An adventurous soul, Helen loved traveling and discovering new places. She had a penchant for shopping sprees and was a gifted storyteller, regaling all with tales of her adventures, life in the "old days," and her family's rich history. Her voice was often heard singing "You Are My Sunshine," a reflection of her warmth and generosity that she shared with all those fortunate enough to know her. Helen's legacy is one of faith, family, and love. Her memory will shine brightly in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Helen is survived by her daughter, Marcia Lasky, son-in-law, Dennis Lasky, granddaughter, Susan Lasky, and her extended family and friends.

She was predeceased by her parents, her husband, her brother, John Waryncia and his wife Teddie, and her granddaughter Michele Lasky.

A celebration of Helen's life will be held at Our Lady of Victory Church, 55 N Lake Ave, Troy on Tuesday, October 3 at 10am. Visiting hours will take place prior to the service at the church at 9am. Burial will follow at St. Peter and St. Paul Cemetery in Waterford.

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