Helen (Kraner) Lenzi of Indiana died Tuesday, April 9, 2019 at the Communities at Indian Haven, after a brief struggle with lymphoma. Born January 31, 1932 in North Braddock, she was the daughter of the late John Kraner and Helen (Nagy) Kraner.
Helen was a graduate of Scott High School in North Braddock, and subsequently graduated from Robert Morris College, Pittsburgh. After graduation, she worked as a secretary in the Safety Department for US Steel, Edgar Thompson Works, in Braddock. In 1955, Helen embarked on her career as the wife of an Army officer. Helen loved this role, and took great pride in hosting both small and large gatherings where the guests enjoyed good food and drink as well as lively conversations.
Helen’s time as an Army wife found her moving to many cities and towns such as Stuttgart, Bangkok, St. Louis, Detroit, El Paso, Aberdeen, and ended in her adopted hometown of Indiana. Through all of these sometimes difficult moves, Helen performed with grace and style.
Helen’s other interests included traveling, cooking, hosting parties, bowling, counted cross-stitch, and crossword puzzles. She was a member of the Women’s Club at IUP, and the Indiana Shakespeare Club. Helen was a volunteer for the Indiana Chapter of the Red Cross for over 18 years, and was awarded the Naomi S. Frye Community Service Award for her cheerful, energetic, and dependable service.
Helen’s most cherished calling though was being a devoted mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She will be greatly missed by her family and many friends.
Helen was married to her high school sweetheart, Anthony F. Lenzi, on February 12, 1955. They were married for more than 47 years prior to his passing on October 17, 2002.
Helen is survived by her children: Arlene Lenzi Miller (William), Indiana; and Anthony J. Lenzi (Sandra), Indiana; four grandchildren: Natalie M. Palma (Timothy), Cranberry Township; Nathan A. Miller, Phoenixville; Anthony R. Lenzi, Indiana; Mia D. Lenzi, Indiana; and great grandchildren: Luke and Lila Palma, Cranberry Township. Also surviving is her sister, Joan Savko, Carlisle.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, John Kraner.
Friends will be received from 5 until 8 PM on Friday, April 12 at the Rairigh-Bence Funeral Home, Indiana. Her funeral service will be held Saturday, April 13 at 1 PM.
Her family kindly suggests memorial contributions be made to the James M. Stewart Museum Foundation and the VNA of Indiana County.
Online condolences may be made at: rbfh.net
