Helen M. Fusco 1937-2026

Helen was born March 31, 1937, in Youngstown, a daughter of the late Michael and Rose Stanko Kaplach, and was a lifelong area resident.

She was a 1955 graduate of Chaney High School and worked at Ohio Bell as a switchboard operator, until her marriage. Afterward, Helen devoted her life to what she considered her most important role — being a loving and dedicated wife and mother, raising and caring for her family with unwavering devotion.

A woman of quiet faith, Helen was a longtime member of the former St. Michael Orthodox Church, where her beliefs helped guide her life and the values she passed on to her family.

In her leisure time, Helen enjoyed visiting casinos, traveling with her late husband, Tony, and going out to eat. She had a special love for watching over and caring for children, a joy that reflected her nurturing heart. Above all, Helen treasured the time she spent with her family, which remained the greatest happiness of her life.

Helen leaves to cherish her memory, her three children, Michelle Kozar, Debbie (Rick) Nittoli and Kenneth (Diane) Fusco; 11 grandchildren, Justin (Barb), Bobby (Erica), Tony, Christopher, Shawn (Curtiss), Jessica (Justin), Renee (Ryan), Michelle (Sean), Jamie, Shane (Katie) and Carly (Austin); three bonus grandchildren, Corey, Kayla (Cody) and Breanna (Steve); 15 great-grandchildren, Anthony, AJ, Adrienne, Lucy, Gianna, Dylan J., Bella, Haley, Avery, Marina, Justin “Bubba,” Milana, Riley, Mack and Georgia; two bonus great-grandchildren, Dylan M. and Vinny; her nephew, Greg Trumbull, who was like a son to Helen; and many extended family members.

Her husband of 63 years, Anthony Angelo “Tony” Fusco, whom she married May 31, 1958, preceded her in death June 27, 2021. Helen was also preceded in death by her son, Anthony M. Fusco; and her sister, Irene Trumbull.

Helen’s family would like to thank the staff at the Inn at Old Saybrook for the excellent care they provided. They would also like to thank Ohio Living Hospice, for making Helen’s last moments peaceful.

Family and friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026, at Kinnick Funeral Home, 477 N. Meridian Road, Youngstown.

Funeral services will begin at 10:15 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026, at the funeral home and continue with a funeral service at 11 a.m. at Sts. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Orthodox Church, 1025 N. Belle Vista Ave., Youngstown.

Interment will follow at Tod Homestead Cemetery in Youngstown, where Helen will be laid to rest beside her beloved Tony.

Visit kinnickfuneralhome.com to send condolences to Helen’s family.

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