Obituary of Helen Kantanista Helen Kantanista, 101, of Niagara Falls passed away peacefully on Saturday February 16,2019, surrounded by her family at OLP Nursing Residence. Helen was the daughter of the late Joseph and Mary Polniak, she graduated with honors from Niagara Falls High School, and worked at Bel Air Craft company during WWII as a Rosie Riveter. In June 1938 Helen married her loving husband Stanley Kantanista. Stanley predeceased her on February 2, 2006 after 63 years of marriage. For 32 years Helen and Stanley were proprietors of Kantanista Grocery and meat market at the corner of 19th and East Falls streets. They were known for their homemade Polish Kielbasa and meats. For the children in the area, the famous penny candy counter was always an attraction to go to the store. Helen belonged to many church clubs including, the Holy Trinity Mother’s Club, and Holy Trinity Seniors Club. As an active member, she contributed all sorts of food donations and baked goods to fund raisers and lawn fetes. In retirement, she worked as a full-time receptionist for the Allergy practice of Dr. Steven Grabiec and was known affectionately as “Mrs. K.” Helen is survived by her daughter Barbara (Steven, M.D.) Grabiec and was predeceased by one son, Carl Kantanista. She is also survived by her grandchildren Bethany Grabiec Jacobs Esq. (Matthew) of Los Angeles, CA, Joseph Grabiec (Jamie) of Manhattan Beach, CA. and Bruce Kantanista of Buffalo, NY, and great grandchildren Samuel and Sadie Jacobs and Lila June Grabiec. Helen has many nieces and nephews who throughout her years have been a part of her life and helped her immensely. Helen was predeceased by her sister Jean Tucker and brother Stephen Polniak. Helen’s family would like to thank Dr. Maria Komin and Supervisor Nurse Jenn Taylor OLP Nursing Residence 2 West Nurses, CNA’S, Activity Aides and Dietary Staff for the compassion care and love they gave to Helen over the last 4 years. Helen has been blessed with many friends in particular a special thank you for the loving care, support of Nichole MacDonald and her husband Jim who have given Helen care and laughs throughout these last years. Helen’s family will be present to receive friends & family Monday, February 18th from 2-6 PM at ZAJAC FUNERAL HOME INC., 319 24th Street, cor of Welch Ave, Niagara Falls, NY. A Mass of Christian burial will be held 10:00 AM on Tuesday, February 19th at Holy Family of Jesus Mary & Joseph Parish (Mt. Carmel site), 2486 Independence Ave, Niagara Falls, NY with Rev. Duane Klizek officiating. EVERYONE PLEASE ASSEMBLE AT CHURCH. Entombment following in Holy Angels Mausoleum/ Gate of Heaven Cemetery Lewiston, NY. Visit zajacfuneralhomeinc.com for online condolences
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Helen Kantanista 1917 2019.
Source: Zajac Funeral Home Inc
Death notice for the town of: Niagara Falls, state: New York