Helen Collura

Helen Collura, 71, died suddenly, but seemingly peaceful, in her home on March 19, 2018. Beloved wife of Salvatore. Cherished mother of Jennifer (Thomas) and adored aunt to many nieces and nephews.

Helen was born in Germany on March 9, 1947. She immigrated to the US with her parents Lucian and Mary Maszczyk and arrived on Ellis Island on December 24, 1949. A self-proclaimed greaser and hippie, she lived a city girl life in Chicago until she met and married her husband, Salvatore Collura, on lucky number 13 of November 1976.

The city girl moved to the suburbs of Roselle with her husband, where together they raised their daughter Jennifer Leigh. Later, Sal and Helen decided to dabble in the pizza business, Nancy’s Pizzeria in Elmhurst. Helen enjoyed focusing on customer service and the “public relations” of the business. She remained in Roselle until her death.

Helen loved reading in all forms, including books and poetry. Fun fact: She has at least three copies of Pride and Prejudice. She also loved music, crosswords, sewing, crafting, cross stitching and art. Helen was an avid viewer and supporter of PBS. Started each day with her favorite, a cup of coffee. She enjoyed bird watching and feeding her feathered friends. Helen rarely missed her daily date with Alex Trebek for her dose of Jeopardy.

While she slowed down after a stroke in 2009, she never stopped being her feisty, strong-willed self. Helen kept moving right along. She enjoyed each day and she easily made friends with every person she met. Helen had a gift to gab and her vibrant personality left a lasting impression on all. She believed some of the important things in life are: a great sense of humor, thirst for knowledge and to be kind to all. She will be greatly missed.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks to make a donation to your favorite charity or to the American Heart Association or American Stroke Association.