HELEN KNIZEK 94 years old, of New City, NY, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2019. Helen was born on a sugar plantation in Waipahu, Hawaii to John and Jokina Duarte on July 29, 1924. Helen met her husband, Joseph, of New York City, at an Army concert during World War II. Joseph was a Corporal stationed at Schoffield Barracks, Hawaii. After the war ended, Helen and Joseph moved to New York City where they lived for many years in Manhattan and then the Parkchester section of the Bronx. In 1984, they moved to New City. Helen was a wonderful cook and hostess but her greatest joy came from her family. She is survived by her daughter, Karen Knizek and her grandson, Peter Orphanides. She was predeceased by her husband, Joseph and by her siblings: Violet Duarte Reis, Frank Duarte, Adam Duarte, Joseph Duarte, and Mickey Duarte. She will be missed by all who knew her. The family will receive friends on Thursday, June 13th, from 2:00-4:00 p.m. and 7:00-9:00 p.m. at the Higgins Funeral Home, 321 S. Main St, New City, NY. Friday, June 14th, a short service will be held at Higgins Funeral Home followed by internment at Ascension Cemetery in Monsey, NY. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to United Hospice of Rockland at 11 Stokum Lane, New City, NY 10956.
Our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased
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