In Memory of Helen Emma Huzarewicz

Obituary

Helen Emma Huzarewicz passed away peacefully on July 16, 2026, at the age of 95.

Born in Utica, New York, on July 25, 1930, Helen was the daughter of William and Florence Hagel.

After losing both of her parents to tuberculosis at a young age, she was lovingly raised by her grandmother, Emma Martin, who instilled in her a strong sense of values, resilience, and loyalty—qualities that remained at the heart of Helen's character
throughout her life.

Helen graduated as Valedictorian of the Utica Free Academy Class of 1949 before earning her bachelor's degree from the New York State College for Teachers at Albany. She began her career teaching Latin and French, but her passion for learning inspired her to pursue graduate studies at McGill University in Montreal. There she formed a lifelong friendship with her professor, Yvonne Champigneul. It was also during this time that she met Stanley Huzarewicz, whom she married in 1959. Together they shared forty years of marriage.

Helen's academic excellence earned her a Fulbright Scholarship, allowing her to study at the University of Caen in France. During this unforgettable year abroad, she and Stanley welcomed their first child, Emilie. Their family later grew with the births of Marylou, Serge, Stephanie, and Stanley, Jr.. 

Helen eventually settled into a career teaching English in the New Hartford Central School District. Over the course of her distinguished career, she touched the lives of countless students. Although she retired in 1989, former students continued to seek her out, sharing stories of the profound influence she had on their lives. Their gratitude remained one of Helen's greatest joys throughout her later years.

Those who knew Helen will remember her boundless curiosity and lifelong love of reading. Whether children's books, science fiction, or the classics, there was always a book within her reach. She delighted in the companionship of her cats, found endless joy in the natural world, and enjoyed a deep appreciation for music and the theater. While attending college in Albany, she and a close friend would travel to New York City to see Broadway productions before treating themselves to sandwiches from the Automat— adventures she fondly recalled for the rest of her life.

Helen pursued many interests with enthusiasm and creativity. She enjoyed stamp collecting, jewelry making through classes at the Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute, and countless other hobbies that reflected her lifelong curiosity and appreciation for
beauty and craftsmanship.

Helen was known for her wisdom, steadfast convictions, compassion, generosity, and unwavering devotion to her family. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her children, Emilie, Marylou, Stephanie, and Stanley, Jr.; her grandchildren, Ian and Cyril; and all whose lives were enriched by knowing her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Florence Hagel; her infant sisters, Florence and Vina; her husband of forty years, Stanley Huzarewicz; and her son, Serge Huzarewicz.

The family extends their sincere gratitude to Tina Baily, Patty Mortis, and the devoted caregivers who have been an invaluable source of compassionate and steadfast support over the years. They also wish to thank the physicians, nurses, and staff of
Wynn Hospital for the care and compassion shown to Helen and her family during her final days.

A celebration of Helen's life will be held on July 23rd between 5 and 7 p.m. at Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral Home, 13 Oxford Road, New Hartford, NY. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance and share their favorite memories. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on July 24th at 10:30 a.m. at Holy Trinity Church, 1206 Lincoln Avenue, Utica, NY. Interment will be in St. Joseph Cemetery, 1427 Champlin Ave, Utica. 

Online expressions of sympathy may be shared at fwefh.com.