Helen L. (Bilinski) Podolak

Helen L. Podolak

Helen L. Bilinski Podolak 96, pass away peacefully at the Finger Lakes Center for the Living on February 27 2020. She had been a resident there for the past 7 years. To many at finger lakes she was known as “Grandma”, as well as “Little Helen”. Although small in stature she was larger than life. She was the dedicated 2nd floor greeter, and was always scooting around the halls and checking on here fellow neighbors. She was rarely in her room, so she could meet and great everyone.  

Helen was born April 4, 1923 in New Hope New York and was the daughter of Tom and Mary Bilinski. She Married Walter Podolak and they were married for 55 years until Walters passing in 2003. Helen is survived by Her brother Frank Bilinski (Judi), Joe and late wife (Kay). She was predeceased by her sisters Nellie, Dorothy, and Sophie, Brothers Mike and Jim.  Helen was the Mother to Leona Feher (Joe), Judy DelPozzo (Jim), Ken Podolak and Teresa Podolak.   She is also survived by her 6 Grandchildren. Erin Johanns , Ryan Podolak, Darren Podolak, Joseph John Feher “JJ”, Ben Feher, and Teresa Dooley, as well as 7 great, great grandchildren.

Elliana Feher, Aaron Feher, Curtis Podolak, Keith Podolak, Conner Dooley, Aedan Dooley,

 Dasham Dooley.

 Helen retired from GE in Auburn and was a dedicated Mother and Grand mother Helen was a member of the Sacred heart church line dancing group. A member of the Auburn YMCA where she enjoyed the rusty hinges swim program.  She also found time to travel, with her late husband and attend many Polka dances while helping her former husband in promoting the music they loved so much. Many a band ended up at the WPP Walt’s Polka Palace along Owasco lake after a night of dancing and fun. Helen made sure no one left hungry. Everyone knew Helen locally in Auburn, Moravia, and Owasco lake. She and Walter traveled to numerous Polka events across the country and abroad.  Helinka Ma Linka or aka little Helen was the nick name the leader of the Jimmy Sturr orchestra gave her. She would smile and laugh when she heard the happy Polka Music that kept her active. Helen continued and shared her love for the music in her final years at the Finger lakes Center for the living. She loved having any band or musician preform for the fellow residents. 3 weeks before her passing she was enjoying a final Polka Party in her honor at Finger lakes put together by her polka loving daughter Judy.  

Helens wishes for her final service was to celebrate life. A memorial service is being held Monday March 2 at St Ann’s Church in Owasco. Her loving family is planning a celebration of Life in the spring to be announced. A warm and most grateful thanks to the finger lakes staff, for all the love and support to Helen and her family over the 7 years. We are grateful to the activities department for scheduling the polka activities that brought so much happiness to Helen her family and her many friends. 

 In Lieu of Flowers, contributions would be appreciated to keep Helens love for music alive. These contributions will help and allow a little bit of Helen to be present in sprit at the finger lakes center for the living.

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