Helen A. Shipula

Helen A. (nee Lusnia) Shipula, 89, of West Chester, PA, formerly of Birchwood Hills in Plains, PA, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 2, 2013. Helen was the wife of the late John R. Shipula, Jr. She was born on October 20, 1923, the youngest of nine children of the late Mary (nee Sczelc) and Francis Lusnia. Helen was raised in the Stanton Hill section of Wilkes-Barre Township, PA. She was a 1941 graduate of the Wilkes-Barre Township HS. Helen served as the receptionist at Pennsylvania Millers Mutual Insurance Company until her retirement at age 65. Helen was one of a kind with a tremendous spirit and love of family. In retirement, she enjoyed being active in her senior citizens community. She travelled extensively; including much of Europe & Asia. Helen enjoyed Country music, the Big Band sound, Polkas and loved to dance up a storm. She was always ready for a game of cards or bingo, or even a trip to Atlantic City. Helen was devoted to her faith & prayer. She was a former member of St. Mary’s Church of the Blessed Mother of the Maternity, then later of Sts. Peter & Paul Parish of West Chester. Helen was predeceased by a daughter: Shirley A. Pinola. Surviving is a former son-in-law: Richard J. (Krista) Pinola Sr., 2 grandchildren: Jennifer P. (Robert) Gunzenhauser & Ric (Missy) Pinola Jr., as well as 2 great-grandchildren: Ricky & Emma Pinola. Relatives and friends may call on Fri, Aug. 9, 2013 at St. Francis Cabrini Church: 585 Mt. Olivet Rd, Wyoming, PA 18644 9-10AM. A Funeral Mass will begin at 10AM. Interment to follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made in Helen’s honor to: The Shirley Pinola Fund of the Visiting Nurse Association of Greater Philadelphia: 3300 Henry Ave., Suite 500, Phila., PA 19129, 215-473-0772. Arrangements are with Alleva Funeral Home, Inc. of Paoli, PA.