Obituary of Helen L. Cichon

HELEN L. CICHON FAITHFUL CATHOLIC, PROUD AMERICAN Helen L. Cichon entered into eternal rest on October 19, 2020. Born in 1936 to John and Ruth VonZuben, she was baptized in the church of St. Ann, Toronto, Canada and grew up as the elder sister of Margaret Mary and John Douglas. She moved to New York City in 1956 and was married to John J. Cichon of Staten Island in 1957. That same year she gave birth to her first son John B., followed by Michael W. two years later. Having enrolled her sons in the school of St. Adalbert, she was supportive of the efforts to build the new parish church and Catholic high schools on Staten Island which came to symbolize the Catholic community in the 1960's. 1969 saw the only day on which she allowed her sons to miss school without having a fever- the day she proudly became a citizen of the United States. Professionally, Helen worked for New York City and State, first as a clerk helping people obtain social services, then working within the court system. She retired in 1991. Among her most cherished memories were the trips she took to places such as Hawaii, Alaska, the Grand Canyon, and Europe. While taking in the sights she never missed an opportunity to catch a glimpse of a wild horse, a flying bald eagle, or listen to the sound of singing cardinals. He love of animals become clear when she sat with all dogs, especially her grand pups whom she spoiled with treats and cheese. Ultimately, however, the most treasured aspect of her life and the purpose for which she lived was the growth of her family, especially the births of her two grandchildren, John Nicholas Cichon and Ann Katrina Cichon. Her world changed again when her grandson married Sarah DiBiase. Finally, her world would be forever changed when her grand daughter gave birth to her great grandchildren James Nicholas and Harper Joan with Corey Greener. Helen was always grateful for those who assisted her both professionally and personally. She maintained a thankful heart for the gift of being able to see her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, a marriage that lasted 63 years, and a faith in god instilled in her from her parents that has made all the difference. A gathering of family and friends will be held on Wednesday, October 21, 2020 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm at Matthew Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Adalbert's Church on Thursday, October 22, 2020 at 11am. Internment of Helen's earthly remains will be at St. Peter's Cemetery.