Helen Sarna

Helen C. (Gaudreau) Sarna, age 88 of New Philadelphia passed away on Friday, March 3, 2023, in Park Village Health Care in Dover, after a period of declining health.

Helen was born on May 4, 1934 in Detroit, Michigan, the second daughter of the late Julian and Eva (Desjardins) Gaudreau.

She graduated from Mercy High School of Detroit and received a B.A. Degree from Mercy College of Detroit and her Master’s Degree in Elementary School Administration from the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana.  Helen also did post graduate work at Georgetown University and Michigan State University.  Helen was also a Religious Sister of Mercy from the Detroit Providence from 1951 to 1971.

Helen initially taught in elementary education but became administrator/principal in several schools throughout the state of Michigan.  During her 25-year career as an educator she was known for her great love of children and being an exemplary educator.

She married her beloved husband, Edward (Eddie) Sarna in Detroit in 1974.  He passed away on August 22, 2016.  Helen and Eddie retired to New Philadelphia in 1996.

Helen is survived by her sister, Gertrude Olds; several nieces, nephews, and cousins, especially cousins Pat and Dave Metzger and their family.

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband; and sister, Jeanne; and brother-in-law, Marvin Olds.

Helen was a faithful member of Sacred Heart Parish in New Philadelphia, and served as a Eucharistic Minister and sang in the Resurrection Choir.  She also volunteered with Community Hospice of Tuscarawas County.  Her hobbies included reading, writing letters, crocheting and helping friends and neighbors.

Family will be greeting guest on Wednesday, March 8, 2023 from 10:00 to 11:00 AM at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in New Philadelphia.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:15 AM.  Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery in New Philadelphia.

Memorials in Helen’s honor may be given to Community Hospice, 716 Commercial Ave. SW, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663 or to Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 139 3^rd St. NE, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663.