Helen Yatsko, 90, a resident of Luzerne, passed into eternal life on Monday morning, May 26, 2025, in the comfort of her home. Her wonderful earthly life may have come to an end, however her glorious new life in Heaven has just begun.

Born on August 17, 1934, in Jessup, Helen was one of two daughters born to the late Joseph (Simcak) Simchak and Helen Malenda Simchak.

Helen’s family came to Swoyersville where her father found work in the local coal mining industry and they eventually settled in Luzerne where she has resided ever since. Receiving her early education at Saint John Nepomucene Grade School, Luzerne, Helen was a graduate of the former Luzerne High School, Class of 1952.

As a young woman, Helen gained employment with Martz Trailways beginning as a ticket agent and later becoming head ticket agent. After retiring, she returned to Martz Trailways, working part-time there for 10 years – her dedication to the Henry Family and the Martz community was unwavering, and her strong work ethic was an inspiration to many, most especially her loving son, James.

Helen was a faithful member of the former Saint John Nepomucene Church, Luzerne, and following its consolidation, she became a member of Holy Family Parish, Luzerne.

Gregarious, smart, and fun to be with, Helen may have been quiet and shy in her younger years, but, as time went on, she became very outgoing and strong willed. Possessing a big heart and great zest for life, her journey through life may not have always been easy, but her courage, strength and beautiful character always shined through. She has truly left this world a much better place.

In addition to her parents, Joseph and Helen Simchak, Helen was preceded in death by her brother-in-law, Michael Barna.

Left to cherish her memory are her son, James Yatsko, Luzerne; her sister, Mary Ann Barna, Swoyersville; and her nephews, Michael Barna and Thomas Barna and their families.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Helen’s Mass of Christian Burial which will be celebrated on Friday, May 30, 2025, at 10:00 AM in Holy Family Parish, 574 Bennett Street, Luzerne.

Interment with the Rite of Committal will follow in Saint John Nepomucene Roman Catholic Cemetery, Courtdale.

In keeping with Helen’s wishes, the viewing will be private for her immediate family members.

The Yatsko Family entrusted Helen’s funeral arrangements to the care of the Wroblewski Funeral Home, Inc., 1442 Wyoming Avenue, Forty Fort.

To share a memory of Helen or message of condolence with her family, you may visit the funeral home website, www.wroblewskifuneralhome.com, or Facebook page.

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