Helen Russo Proto

helen proto
Helen Russo Proto, age 86, passed away on December 10, 2012 in Southington. Formerly of Hamden, Helen was the widow of Andrew Proto. Born in New Haven on March 13, 1926 she was the daughter of the late John and Marian 'M' Juliano Russo. Helen is survived by her sons, John Proto & his life partner Michael Gambino and David Proto & his life partner Stephen Szymanski all of Hamden. Helen was a medical secretary for Dr. David Clement and later the Hospital Of Saint Raphael before retiring in 1992. She was past president of the Hamden Women's Club and former member of the Blessed Sacrament Church Ladies League. Her funeral will be from BEECHER & BENNETT FUNERAL HOME, 2300 Whitney Ave., Hamden on Wednesday December 12th at 9:30 AM, followed by her Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 AM in the Church of the Blessed Sacrament. Interment in All Saints Cemetery. Friends may also visit with her family at the funeral home on Tuesday from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Resource Center, Residents Arts & Music Program, 1261 South Main Street, Plantsville, CT 06479.

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  1. Dear David, Stephen, John & Michael, Our deepest and heartfelt sympathy to you and yours at this difficult time. May the extraordinary care you provided you beloved Mother combined with your loving memories provide you comfort now. Thinking of you, John & Anthony

  2. Dear Mom, You were always my rock when I needed one. You taught me how to be caring and compassionate, I owe my successful career all to you because of it. When I smile in the mirror, that big Helen smile looks back at me. I am so fortunate I inherited that from you. I need to see that smile so badly right now. You taught me how to cook, and how to cover up when you screwed up dinner – which you rarely did. Throughout this horrible disease called Alzheimer’s, you somehow kept your dignity, even when you didn’t remember your past life. I hope that I carry the same courage you did. When it comes to child rearing, you were the best! John and I won the lottery with you and Dad.We will both be forever grateful. Love Always, Your Baby Boy, David

  3. I am so happy to have had the opportunity to know this wonderful woman and care for her at the beginning of her journey with Alzheimer’s. Helen was a great Mom as evidenced by her awesome sons. Our prayers are with you as you close this chapter. love, Sharon & Bill Albone

  4. John, I am so sorry for your loss. I can’t imagine a better son. She is very proud of you-I’m sure. You have been an inspiration to all. I will be out of town Tuesday and Wednesday and I won’t be able to be with you but you will remain in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you love and prayers Doreen

  5. John, I remember your mom when I worked at Stop & Shop in my much younger days. She used to come in and always had a smile. One of the most pleasant ladies who came in my line. May she rest in peace.

  6. John, so sorry for your loss…I recall how fondly you spoke of your mom in class. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

  7. Miss Helen, You were sick and tired and we all knew, that God would soon come to take you. You fought so hard, so very long,but through the pain, you stayed strong. Dave, stay strong. You are in my prayers and thoughts.

  8. Our condolences at the passing of Aunt Helen. My family has many wonderful memories of our time with her and Uncle Andy. Our prayers are with her. Adele and Joe Proto

  9. We love you John. We are truly sorry for your loss but thankful for heaven’s gain. Mark, Kathleen, Ethan, and Emma Bodie

  10. We’re so very sorry to hear of your lost. Our prayers are with the family. John while we didn’t have the pleasure of meeting your mother, I’m sure she was a phenomenal woman because her kind heart and values shine clear in you. God bless you and Mike and again you have our condolence. Elizabeth and Cheyenne B.

  11. Dave – my thoughts go out to you and your family. Sorry I could not make the services last night. Please know that I’m thinking of you and wish that I could of been there.

  12. Dear John and Mike, Thinking of you and your family and sending our condolences. You were amazing caregivers and are role models for us all. May she rest in peace now, Heidi and John Sward and family

  13. Dear John: Condolences to you, Mike and your family. Your loving care of your Mom was an inspiration to us all. She was blessed to have such wonderful sons! I pray you have peace now knowing she is in the loving hands of God.


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