Helen M. Lesigonich 1927-2020

Helen was born Aug. 21, 1927, in Youngstown, a daughter of the late John and Elizabeth Dudash Ragan; she lived in Youngstown for most of her life.

She was a graduate of Chaney High School. In the mid-1940s, she lived at Rita’s Home for Businesswomen on Broad Street in Columbus while she worked in the Ohio Statehouse for the local state representative.

Helen was a beloved stay-at-home-mom after her marriage in 1949 and it was something she truly enjoyed. She was an active parent and was very involved in her children’s lives and activities. In her younger years, she was a member and president of the Adams Elementary School PTA.

In 1974, Mrs. Lesigonich entered the public workforce and was employed by Youngstown State University, working for the YSU Library in the Acquisitions Department, retiring in 1996.

She was a member of Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church in Youngstown, a member of the church’s St. Anne Guild, and volunteered for the pyrohy and kolachi fundraisers. Helen was also an active member of the American Businesswomen’s Association.

Helen enjoyed crocheting as a hobby and her family was often “blessed” with one of her afghans. She also enjoyed playing bingo, internet cafes and casinos, and she loved to go for breakfast at C’s Waffles on South Avenue.

Helen leaves four children, Robert Lesigonich of Chardon, Theresa (Ronald “Jeff”) Maley of Mt. Vernon, Thomas Lesigonich of Boardman and Charles Lesigonich of Reynoldsburg; three grandchildren, Holly (Edwin) Wiley, Rebecca (Josh) Brigham and Matthew Maley; and two great-grandchildren, Gabrielle and Pierce Brigham.

Her beloved husband of nearly 55 years, Steve “Legs” Lesigonich, whom she met at a dance at Krakusky Hall in Youngstown and married Oct. 15, 1949, passed away Sept. 5, 2004.

Four brothers, John, Andy, Paul and Edward Ragan, also preceded Helen in death.

Private funeral services will be held Friday, March 27, at Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church, with interment to follow in Calvary Cemetery in Youngstown.

Due to the current virus pandemic, no public calling hours or services have been scheduled, but a memorial service will be planned.

Kinnick Funeral Home in Youngstown was entrusted with Mrs. Lesigonich’s arrangements and the funeral home’s website will be updated when public services are to be scheduled.

Memorial contributions may be made in Helen’s name to Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church, 525 W. Rayen Ave., Youngstown, OH 44503.

Please visit kinnickfuneralhome.com to view and share this obituary, and to send condolences online to Helen’s family.

(special notice)