With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Helen Frances Skalecki, a beloved daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, and friend. Helen was born on October 4, 1930, in Charleroi, Pa., and she departed this life on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in Fenton, Mich., where she recently moved to be closer to family.
Helen was a devoted member of the Catholic faith, attending St. Ursula, St. Theresa, and most recently St. Mary Roman Catholic Church. Her unwavering commitment to her faith was mirrored in her actions, as she was not only a friend to everyone but also a care giver to many within the community. Helen had a unique ability to put others before herself, and her radiant smile and twinkling eyes would light up any room she entered.
Helen dedicated her working life to the City of Morgantown as a crossing guard, ensuring the safety of countless children and their families. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life, particularly in her love for BINGO, where laughter and camaraderie filled her heart.
She is survived by her cherished children, daughter, Christe Auerswald; son, Teddy Skalecki and his wife Georgia; daughter, Taressa Vollmar and her husband John; and daughter, Sharbie Higuchi and her husband Darren.
Her legacy also includes eight loving grandchildren, Tonya Hopper (husband, Rick), Daria Lane (husband John), Lauren Budyta, Sarah Kelly (husband, Dan), Logan Vollmar (wife, Valerie), Vicari Vollmar, Sophie Stanley (husband, Nick), and Sean Higuchi; six great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grand- child, who will all carry forward her spirit of kindness and compassion.
Helen is further survived by her brother, Edward Joseph Duski; and sister, Anna Mae Martin.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her siblings, George, Andrew, Steve, John, and Jim Duski, Dorothy Rowan, Bill Garcher, and an infant sister, Eva Duski.
Family and friends will gather at St. Mary Catholic Church, Star City, W.Va., on Thursday, July 31, 2025, from 10 a.m. until the Mass of Christian Burial at noon with Rev. Fr. John McDonough presiding as celebrant. Interment will take place at the East Oak Grove Cemetery, 1290 Dorsey Ave., Morgantown, WV 26501.
In honoring the remarkable woman she was, we invite all who knew Helen to join us in remembering her heart of gold and the indelible impact she made on our lives. May she rest in eternal peace.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Helen’s memory to the St. Ursula Food Pantry, P.O. Box 18, Pursglove, WV 26546. Memorials may be offered at www.fredjenkinsfuneralhome.com
