Obituary of Helen Tarella

Helen Ernestina Stefanolo Tarella died peacefully in her home in Fort Lee on January 12, 2022 where she resided for over 60 years.

She was pre-deceased by her husband Anthony and her daughter-in-law Beverly Liftman and is survived by her sons James, Joseph and spouse Lee Shain, grandsons Jonathan and spouse Keeley Thornton, and Jason, and her great grandson Arthur.

After graduating early from Emerson High School, she worked as a business assistant to the owner of the real estate office Finger & Levine.  Upon her marriage, she partnered with her husband in running a dairy farm in Unionville, NY.  Returning to Union City and then moving to Fort Lee in 1960, she was a dedicated homemaker, excellent cook, remarkable seamstress and active gardener.  She also worked at several different local schools for many years, with the longest tenure as a bookkeeper assisting Superintendent Louis Cole at the Fort Lee Board of Education until her retirement.  She enjoyed celebrations in the company of her family and friends, especially ballroom dancing and singing, along with many beach vacations at Point Pleasant, remaining very active all of her long life.  She was proud of her Italian-American Piedmontese heritage, speaking fluently in both Italian and the dialect, and was an avid crossword puzzle enthusiast.

The family would like to acknowledge the extreme dedication and kindness of her health care aides over the past 13 years, whose amazing efforts played a significant role in her quality of life, allowing her to remain in her home to the end.

There will be a viewing on Sunday , January 16, from 3 to 6 pm and a Burial Service on Monday, January 17, at 10:30 am. In her memory that family has asked that donations be made to Multiple Systems Atrophy (MSA) Coalition.  For condolences, directions, or information call (201) 944-0100 or www.frankpatti.com