Helen Ann (Centro) Pardi

Mrs. Helen Ann (Centro) Pardi, age 61, of New Hartford, passed away on Saturday, March 17, 2007 in the comfort of her home after a courageous battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease). Her devoted daughter was by her side at the time of her passing. Born in Rome, NY on November 3, 1945, Helen was the daughter of the late Frank and Sarah (Asfur) Centro. She was raised and educated in Rome. In November of 1968 she was married to Gerald A. Pardi, and from this union the couple was proudly blessed with two children. At one time, Helen was employed at the Grand Union Supermarket. More recently she held a position with the Slocum Dickson Medical Group. Loyal and conscientious, she formed many devoted and lasting friendships through her occupation at Slocum Dickson. She was committed to her position and was respected for her talents. She worked there until her retirement in July of 2005. For leisure entertainment Helen was fond of taking trips to Turning Stone Casino where she preferred the Keno machines. It was her favorite pastime. She was a communicant of the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes. Helen is survived by her loving and devoted children and their spouses, Nicole M. and John H. Hobika, Jr. of New Hartford, and Jason A. and Jennifer D. Pardi of Rochester; her two granddaughters who were the light of her life, Gabriella Elizabeth “Princess”, and Olivia Anna “Pumpkin” Hobika. She also leaves two very special friends who were close and dear to her, Vita Graniero of New Hartford, who lovingly cared for Helen throughout her illness, and Linda DeGrace. In addition, she leaves her sisters and brother-in-law, Betty and Roger Sabia, and Lena Centro, all of Rome; her brother and sister-in-law, Frank and Cathy Centro of Oneida; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and friends, Carol and Gary Glatt, and Dr. Ed Lee. The family extends sincere thanks to the people who cared for Helen during her illness, especially Tina, who shared a special bond with her and who Helen loved very much; to LouAnn and Marilyn Bland; to Father Joe Salerno for his spiritual guidance and Hospice for their support. Helen fought a courageous battle with this deadly disease while maintaining her dignity. She never complained and was able to offer a great sense of support, wisdom, and advice to her family. “We are so proud of you, Mom!” Her smile and laughter has faded, but her spirit will live with us forever! Visitation will be held Monday from 5-8 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. By family request, please omit floral offerings. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial donations in Helen’s honor to the ALS of Utica; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Helen’s funeral will commence on Tuesday at 10:00 from the funeral home and at 11:00 from the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes. Interment will take place at Calvary Cemetery.

Helen Ann (Centro) Pardi

November 3, 1945 - March 17, 2007