Obituary of Helen Piwowar

Helen Gertrude Bialy was born August 20, 1924, in Wyandotte, Michigan. She was one of six children born from the union of Frank and Casimiera (Warda) Bialy. Helen attended St. Stanislaus Kostka grade school and graduated from Roosevelt High School with the class of 1941. She married William J. Nester in 1944 and adopted three children from Catholic Charities. Helen loved being a stay-at-home mom caring for her dear loving husband and children. They spent many happy times with both sides of their very close families. She found her second career calling in the 1970’s selling Tupperware to help with the family income when “Bill” had a debilitating neck surgery that kept him from work temporarily. She loved the product and enjoyed her home parties for 25 years. She navigated the challenging business landscape with determination and grace, building a loyal customer base through her exceptional sales skills and infectious enthusiasm.

When Bill surprised the family by bringing home a small camper trailer one day, Helen was leery of the whole camping scene. One camping trip later she was hooked, and she reveled in watching her family enjoy every aspect of the outdoor life! When Bill sadly passed away in 1981, she sold the camper and found new enjoyment in socializing with parish friends at festivals and polish dances.  She met the second love of her life Henry in 1984 at one of these social gatherings. They dated and danced for five years until they married in 1989 at St Stans.  During their happy and active thirty-four year marriage, Helen and her husband shared a passion for travel. Las Vegas held a special place in their hearts, becoming a frequent getaway for the couple. They embarked on seven memorable cruises, exploring different corners of the world together. A trip to Poland allowed them to embrace their heritage and create lifelong memories. Additionally, they went on numerous bus trips, traversing the vast landscapes of the United States. 

One couldn't think of Helen without picturing her and her beloved husband, Henry, dressed alike, twinning in their outfits not only on nights they went dancing but also, on every occasion they stepped out together. Their synchronized fashion sense represented the deep bond they shared, a true testament to their affection to each other. 

Helen's culinary prowess was unmatched. She found immense joy in preparing delicious meals for her family, making her home the go-to destination for all holiday gatherings. Her signature city chicken or pork roast, slow cooked to perfection, roast beef accompanied by creamy mashed potatoes and savory gravy, and a side of canned corn, became legendary among friends and relatives. 

Known for her unyielding faith, Helen was a devout Catholic who instilled in her children the same values of her religion. She raised her family with love, compassion, and a solid moral compass, nurturing their hearts and souls alongside her husband.

Even in death, Helen’s spirit remained as strong-willed as ever. She faced her final days with the same stubborn determination that defined her life. Helen G. Piwowar, age 98, of Wyandotte passed away Thursday August 3, 2023, while under the care of Henry Ford Hospice. In addition to her passing, she is preceded by her first husband: Willam (Bill) J. Nester; three sisters: Mary Karasienski, Cassie Grupczynski, Genevieve Burtka, Irene Kuzmiak; two brothers: John Bialy, Stanley Bialy; and son: Timothy F. Nester.

Left to cherish her memory, she leaves her husband: Henry; four children: Bill (Noreen) Nester, Jean Ann Boyes, Daniel (Nancy) Piwowar, Yvonne Berry-Piwowar; seven grandchildren: Alex (Jodi Ferlito) Boyes, Jarod Boyes, Keith Boyes, Joe Johnson, Jonathan Berry, Kara Gelven, Kevin (Jordan) Piwowar, and five great grandchildren. 

Friends may gather Sunday August 6, 2023, at Molnar Funeral Homes-Nixon Chapel; 2544 Biddle Avenue, Wyandotte, Michigan 48192 from 2:00pm until 8:00pm, with a 5:00pm Rosary. She will lie instate at 11:30am until 12:00pm on Monday August 7, 2023, at St. Joseph Catholic Church within the St. Pallotti Parish; 334 Elm Street, Wyandotte, Michigan 48192. The Mass of the Resurrection will follow at 12:00pm with Fr. Gerald Grupczynski officiating. A procession to Mt. Carmel Cemetery will immediately follow the Mass. Arrangements were entrusted to Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162 (734) 384-5185.

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