Helen B. Fabrizi, a cherished matriarch and longtime resident of Canastota, passed away on the evening of August 16, 2025, at the age of 98. She spent the last two years of her life at the Sunnyside Care Center in East Syracuse, where her family and friends remember her warmth and kindness.
Born on June 20, 1927, in Canastota, Helen was the daughter of Salvatore and Irene Teller Bonaventura. A proud graduate of Canastota Central School, she completed her education in 1945 before embarking on a fulfilling career. Helen married Guerino Fabrizi at St. Agatha’s Church on June 19, 1948. They shared many joyful years together until Guerino’s passing on July 20, 1988.
A Life of Service and Community Engagement
Prior to her retirement, Helen dedicated 44 years of her life to Key Bank, where she worked as a teller. After retiring, she continued to serve her community by volunteering as a teacher’s aide for 18 years at South Side Elementary School in Canastota. Her commitment to education and her love for children left a lasting impact on many young lives.
Helen was known for her sharp mind and enjoyed keeping it active with crossword puzzles. An avid fan of the New York Yankees, she rarely missed watching an episode of Jeopardy. Her passions extended to shopping, which she enjoyed immensely. She was also a member of the Community Players Theatre and remained devoted to her Catholic faith throughout her life.
Family and Legacy
Helen is survived by her daughter, Debra Norwalk, and her husband, Walt Ulrich, of Canastota; her son, Dennis Fabrizi, and his wife, Susanne, of Rochester. She leaves behind four grandchildren: Sara Buske, Kate Norwalk, Thomas Fabrizi, and Alexis Fabrizi, as well as one great-grandson, Daniel Buske. Helen is also mourned by her brothers, Joseph Bonaventura and Harold Bonaventura, and sister-in-law, Joanne Fabrizi. She shared a special bond with her caregiver and friend, Linda Steffan.
She was predeceased by three sisters: Dorothy Pugliano, Carol Robotham, and Betty Carroll; her brother, Salvatore Bonaventura; and son-in-law, Daniel Norwalk.
Graveside services for Helen Fabrizi will be held at 11:30 AM on August 23, 2025, in St. Agatha’s Cemetery. There will be no prior services. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Wanderer’s Rest Humane Association, P.O. Box 535, Canastota, NY 13032. The arrangements are managed by Campbell-Dean Funeral Home, Inc., located at 300 S. Peterboro Street, Canastota.
For those wishing to leave a message of condolence, please visit www.campbell-dean.com.
