MAYVILLE - Helen C. Kazelunas, 87, of 5016 West Lake Road, Mayville, passed away Saturday (Oct. 6, 2012), peacefully at home, after a brief illness.
She was born on May 20, 1925, in the family homestead, the daughter of Floyd and Alyda (Thorpe) Hardenburg. She graduated from Chautauqua Central School in 1943 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Syracuse University in 1947. She married Bernard G. Kazelunas in 1946, who preceded her in death in 1990.
Helen was a lifelong resident of Mayville, where she and Bernard raised their family.
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Helen C. Kazelunas
As an award-winning artist, who specialized in portraitures and landscapes, Helen's watercolors and gouaches won numerous awards in local juried shows throughout Chautauqua County. She was also a member of the Chautauqua Art Association, whose design was selected for the official flag of Chautauqua Institution. She was commissioned by private individuals for her paintings throughout her career.
Her artistic sensibilities and interests went beyond painting to include sculpture, original needlework and clothing design, interior design, cooking and horticulture. Helen's home was a reflection of her artistic flair. Every room a visual, aesthetic experience. Her gardens and grounds, containing some plantings over 100 years old, were a delight to visitors.
As a dedicated mother, Helen brought her artistic talents into everyday life, creating wonderful meals, including her favorite part, the dessert, in particular, incredible pies. A lover of animals, Helen was known for turning strays into pets throughout her life. She believed they too, were an integral part of the family.
In addition to her husband, she is predeceased in death by her three brothers: Arthur, Hawley and Henry Hardenburg.
She is survived by her four children: Martha Kazelunas (Hank Berman) of Teaneck, N.J., Peter T. Kazelunas of Mayville, Jeffery P. Kazelunas (Roslyn Sisley) of Jamestown, N.Y., and Sara Hart (Richard) of Westfield, N.Y. She is also survived by two nieces: Pamela and Nancy Hardenburg of London, England.
There will be a private memorial in the spring. Memorials may be made to Hospice of Chautauqua County, 20 W. Fairmont Avenue, Lakewood, N.Y.
Arrangements are by the Freay Funeral Home, Mayille, N.Y.
