Helen B. Howe

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our loving mother, Helen Bridget Howe, on July 4, 2023, at the age of 87. Helen is survived by her three children Kathleen (Edward) McCann, Helenann (Kevin) McMahon, and Tricia (Scott) Powers, as well as her eight grandchildren Kaitlyn (Tom), Billy, Kimberly, Rebecca, Ryan, Eddie IV, Brendan and Kayla along with her great-granddaughter, Grace Katherine Masi. Helen is also survived by her sister, Mildred "Tinchie" Risolo, and Richard Traynor. Helen is predeceased by her husband, Billy Howe, her sister, Marie Travers, her brother James "Sonny" Traynor, and her brother-in-law Peter Moffitt. Helen is survived by her sisters-in-law and brothers-in-laws June and Simone Mingione, CeCe Moffitt, James and Ann Marie Howe, and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Helen was born on February 21, 1936, in the Bronx to Josephine and James Traynor of Irish Descent. Helen was always proud of her Irish heritage. At six weeks old, her toes were put in the sand of Rockaway Beach, NY. Her family enjoyed many days on Beach 91st Street. Helen was very fortunate to have her childhood friends all her life. After Helen graduated from Far Rockaway High School, she began her career at the New York Telephone Company. Helen would often tell a story about how she was coming home while walking down Beach 91st she passed a house with a flag on display. She came home and said, "Mom I think someone just came home from Korea". As it turned out, she would meet that man, Billy Howe, and marry him. Billy and Helen were married on September 22, 1962, at St. Rose of Lima and started their family in Far Rockaway. They moved to Oceanside in 1975 and happily raised three daughters making great memories.

Helen worked for the Marriage Tribunal at the Diocese of Rockville Centre for nearly 30 years, retiring as the Office Manager. She found great purpose and passion being a woman of strong faith in her position. It is here where she met her life-long friend, Monsignor Richard C. Bauhoff. Monsignor Bauhoff became an integral part of Helen's children's lives as he was the officiant at family weddings and baptism ceremonies.

One of Helen's greatest joys was being with her grandchildren. She spent countless hours cheering from the bleachers, and fields, and attending dance recitals and concerts. Helen was an avid Yankee fan and loved to discuss the games. She was the grandmother every child knew with her kind smile, sense of humor, and words of support. She was blessed to have been a great-grandmother (Gigi) to Gracie who brought her immense joy. Additionally, Helen was an active participant in the Oceanside and East Rockaway Senior Centers where she developed wonderful friendships.

Please know that each and every one of you touched our mother's life in a special way. Our mother was our very best friend and will miss her sorely, but will find comfort in knowing that she is reunited with our Dad.