Helen Martha (Rzepka) Szilagyi

Helen Martha Szilagyi, of Mill Creek, Indiana, a beacon of love and kindness, passed away peacefully on April 23, 2025, at the age of 99, in La Porte, Indiana.

Born on April 1, 1926, in South Bend, Indiana, Helen was the cherished daughter of the late Andrew and Veronica (Mucha) Rzepka.

Her life was a testament to the enduring power of love, family, and community. Helen's journey began in the warmth of St. Adalbert Catholic Church in South Bend, where she married the love of her life, Louis W. Szilagyi, on July 27, 1946. Their union was blessed with a lifetime of shared moments until Louis's passing on October 4, 2008. Together, they raised a family that became Helen's pride and joy: son, Daniel (Diane) Szilagyi of La Porte; daughters, Linda (Paul) Rymer and Dorie (Neil) Lauver, both of Mill Creek, Indiana. Helen's legacy flourished through her adored grandchildren, Tami Gonzalez, Scott (Sara) Szilagyi, Breanna (Tony) Hull, Brian and Bradley Rymer, Kimberly (Jason) Wood, and Renee (Michael) Trexler, as well as Ashley Lauver. Her great-grandchildren, Anna (Tristan) Delgado, Sarah Cornelison, Domingo (DJ) Gonzalez, Dawson, Gavin, Nolan and Lila Hull, Henryk and Isla Wood, and Oliver Trexler, added even more joy to her life.

The family circle expanded with the arrival of her great-great-granddaughter, Veil Delgado. Helen was a beloved aunt to many nieces and nephews, and she was preceded in death by her brothers, Walter, Stanley, Edward, and Joseph Rzepka.

Helen's dedication to her community was evident through her work as a school bus driver with the La Porte Community Schools and cooked for Mill Creek Elementary School. She was a familiar and comforting presence to many children over the years, ensuring their safe passage to and from school. Her commitment to service extended beyond her professional life as she was an active member of Holy Family Parish, Sacred Heart Church in La Porte. She also enjoyed the camaraderie and purpose found in the American Legion and Farm Bureau.

Family was the cornerstone of Helen's world. She cherished the holidays and special occasions, reveling in the opportunity to gather with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her home was a hub of warmth and celebration, filled with the aromas of her lovingly prepared meals. Helen's Polish heritage was a source of pride and joy, often expressed through her love of Polish music and dance. Her zest for life also led her to enjoy bingo and casino outings where she and her sister-in-law, Jane Szilagyi would meet at Four Winds in New Buffalo to enjoy playing slots and splitting a sandwich at the deli. Helen and Louie loved to travel and her family loved to hear their stories of what kind of shenanigans they did during their travels.

A talented homemaker and farm wife, Helen's skills in cooking, baking, and canning were legendary among her family and friends, especially her famous apple slices. Her kitchen was a place of creativity and generosity, where recipes were treasures passed down through generations and every meal was an act of love. Helen's character was the embodiment of loving, kind, and thoughtful. She had a special way of making each person feel valued and heard, her gentle guidance and unwavering support leaving an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to know her. Her presence was a comforting constant, a source of stability and affection that enriched the lives of her loved ones.

Visitation will be held from 4-7 PM Monday, April 28, 2025, at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, 1117 Indiana Avenue, La Porte, Indiana, where a Parish Rosary will be recited at 6:45 PM.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 AM Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at Holy Family Parish, Sacred Heart Church 201 Bach Street, La Porte, Indiana.

Family and friends may gather at 9 AM on Tuesday in the Funeral Home prior to the Mass.

Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Holy Family Parish, Sacred Heart Church or to the Billy Graham World Relief Fund, https://giving.billygraham.org/world-emergency-fund/

To light a virtual candle, share a story of Helen’s life or leave a message of comfort for her family, please visit esslingfuneralhome.com

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