Helen Bella Vukonich
( June 05, 1936 – November 07, 2022 )
Helen (Bella) Vukonich, age 86, passed away peacefully at her home on November 7, 2022. Helen was born Elena Mileta in Van Houton, NM on June 5, 1936. She grew up in the neighboring coal camps of Brilliant and Koehler prior to moving to Raton where she lived the rest of her life.
Helen is preceded in death by her loving husband Buddy Vukonich of 59 years, parents Lazo and Antonia Mileta, half-sisters Josephine and John Rodman, Elizabeth and Fred Parker, sisters Mary Mileta, Emily and George Krulyac, Zita and Nickie Yaksich, Martha and Gene Menapace, brother Pete Mileta, and brothers-in-law Charles Stevens, Del Huffman, and Michael Vukonich.
She is survived by three sons, Steve of Raton; Danny and wife Beverly of Raton; and John and wife Marguerita of Farmington, NM. Daughter Tara Stosek and husband Tom of Beulah, CO.
She is also survived by sisters Anna Stevens, Sophie and husband Shorty Madrid, and sisters-in-law Mary Nell Mileta, Gayle Huffman, and Kathy Vukonich. Helen was blessed with six wonderful grandchildren, Kylie McGill and husband Sean; Kaycie Connally and husband Kevin; Kori Vukonich and Dephen Chavez; Joe Stosek and Breanna Berry; Sam Stosek and Jerrica Vukonich. One great grandson Jameson McGill as well as many nieces, nephews, and a host of friends.
For over 60 years Helen owned and managed rental property providing homes for people throughout our community creating lifelong friendships. Her passion for crocheting resulted in countless afghans gifted to many. No matter how you referred to her; Helen, Mom, Bella, Grandma Bell, GG, Aunt Bella, Shady Lady, or friend, certainly she will be missed by all.
The family would like to thank all of Helen’s numerous caregivers throughout the years, especially Nancy Sanchez, and Robin Pilley of Anvoi Hospice for their care and love for her.
Funeral arrangements for Helen are scheduled for Friday, December 9th beginning at 10:00 am at Alderette-Pomeroy Funeral Home. Holy Rosary will be prayed by Frank Cimino followed by a memorial service. Inurnment immediately following at Mount Calvary Cemetery. The family welcomes you to join them for lunch at the Raton Country Club once the cemetery services have concluded.
Arrangements for Helen Vukonich are under the direction of the Alderette-Pomeroy Funeral Home.
