Helen Marie Zappanti went to her heavenly home surrounded by her family on February 19, 2018.
She was born, to Louis Rudy Kancilia and Erma Bressan Kancilia on August 31, 1929 in Berwin, CO. On July 3, 1950, she was united in marriage to Frank J. Zappanti. This union gifted them with five children.
Helen Marie was welcomed into heaven by loved ones who preceded her in death: Frank J. Zappanti, husband, Larry Zappanti Sr., son, parents Rudy and Erma Kancilia and brothers Louis Jr. (Sonny), and Don Kancilia.
Helen was known for her loving generous heart. Spending time with family meant everything to her. She loved to cook, gamble, dance, host gatherings and travel. Her strength and fighting spirit were evident in all areas of her life.
Because God blessed Helen and Frank with Marty, a special needs child, Helen’s true legacy became her many years of passionate advocacy and tireless work to positively impact the lives of people with developmental disabilities.
Helen will also be remembered for her welcoming smile and friendly service while working as a waitress at Hausman’s Drug Store and Ben Franklin’s Luncheonette. She also worked at Holy Trinity and Mt. Carmel Schools. No doubt, her favorite job was babysitting her beloved grandchildren.
Survivors are daughters Irma Marie Zappanti, Nellie (Paul) Barros, Sharon (Bob) Reorda and son Martin A. Zappanti, honorary daughters Elaine (Frank)Alfonso-Naccarato and Kim (Terry) Legan.
Grandchildren, Jennifer Barros, Rachel Barros, Larry (Magdalena) Zappanti Jr., Brad (Anna) Reorda, Adam (Diadre) Kosec-Zappanti, Brandon Zappanti and honorary grandson Oscar Prieto-Cano.
Great Grandchildren, Matias Samora Zappanti, Hayzin Zappanti, Hunter Reorda, Hadley Reorda and Aniya Marie Kosec-Zappanti.
She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews and many special lifelong friends.
Visitation will be at the Comi Chapel on Monday from 3PM-7PM
Rosary will be Monday February 26, 2018 at 7PM at the Comi Chapel.
Funeral Mass will be Tuesday, February 27, 2018 at 10AM at Holy Trinity Church
Interment will follow at the Trinidad Catholic Cemetery.
Honorary pallbearers are Jim Zappanti, Charles Garlutzo and Ken Alfonso
Active pallbearers are grandchildren, Jennifer Barros, Rachel Barros, Larry Zappanti Jr. Oscar Prieto-Cano, Brad Reorda, Adam Kosec-Zappanti and great-grandson Hayzin Zappanti
Arrangements made under the direction of th4 Comi Funeral Home
