Helen C. Wilcox

Helen C. Wilcox, 90 of Endwell, NY, passed away on September 3, 2012 at Wilson Hospital, after a short illness. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Debbie and Ollie Riley Jr. of Endwell, son Kevin Wilcox of Endwell and five loving grandchildren, Dr. Carolyn Riley and Pete Klimas, Katie Riley, and Kevin and Kristen Wilcox, and their mother, Lauren Maisano; sister and brother-in-law Stella and Walter Suchowiecki, sister-in-law Rosemary Surowka and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Jim Wilcox, her son Dr. Gary Wilcox, her parents Anthony and Bertha Surowka, her sisters and brothers-in-law Stephie and Eddie Kozak and Sophie and John Ceklynski, her brother and sister-in-law Bill and Ann Surowka, and her brother Ted Surowka. Helen was born on March 21, 1922 in Johnson City and graduated from Johnson City High School. She enjoyed singing with the Len Fennell Band at the Fountains Pavilion, and also worked at the Endicott Johnson Tag Office. In her younger years, she was, an active community member, serving as president of the Johnson City Women’s Republican Party and the Inner-Wheel Lady Rotarians of Johnson City. She also volunteered at Wilson Memorial Hospital, was involved in many activities at Blessed Sacrament Church, and was helpful and caring to those in need. Helen was a member of the Johnson City YWCA for many years, and missed it very much when she could no longer attend. Her favorite past times were when she was with her family and friends. She was very thankful for her friends Lillian and Georgiana, and all of the wonderful staff and residents at Ideal Senior Living Center. She was especially proud of her grandchildren, and loved every minute she was with them. Helen will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at The Church of the Holy Family in Endwell, Thursday September 6th at 12:30 pm. Entombment will be in Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City. At Helen’s request, there will be no calling hours. In Lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in memory of Helen may be made to Catholic Charities of Broome County or the Danielle House. The family would like to thank Dr. Berkowitz and Dr. DiMenna and their staffs for their exceptional care.