Helen Rose Bohlayer

Helen Rose Bohlayer, 96, of Elmira, NY, passed away peacefully with family by her side on February 20th, 2026. She was born to parents Peter Pastusic and Sophia Say Pastusic, on December 19th, 1929 in Mildred, PA. <br /> <br /> Helen graduated from Cherry Township High School and eventually moved to Elmira, NY with her younger sister Elizabeth (Betty) and their friend Phyllis. That's where she met and married her husband, Robert N. Bohlayer in 1955. They celebrated 51 years of marriage before Bob's death on July 15th, 2006. They had a great run. <br /> <br /> Helen wanted a busload of kids. She and Bob were blessed with four, Julie Chalk (JJ); Paula Bohlayer; Renée Bohlayer Juteau and infant son Michael. Helen then was blessed with four grandchildren, Sarah Wells; Mariah Chalk Locke (Robert); Erynne Chalk Snyder (Chase) and Alexis Bye. Oh how she loved them all! Then came the great grands, Ashton Grice; Alexander and Thomas Locke; Presley and Mayson Snyder to bring even more joy. Helen also had a very special bond with her sister-in-law Alberta Pastusic, several nieces and nephews and neighbor Mary Tice. <br /> <br /> Helen had the most infectious laugh and a very bright spirit. She lived with deep faith, walking with the Lord and guiding others by example. She was happiest whenever others were happy. She loved to feed people and help whoever she could. A member of Most Holy Name of Jesus (St. Mary's), she volunteered for Bingo there for many years. Helen was a lifelong gardener, loved to play cards, pick blueberries, strawberries and apples, an avid bowler in her younger days, a very good cook and baker and the kind of mother grandmother, aunt and friend everyone wished they had. <br /> <br /> Helen was predeceased by her brothers, infant Peter, Paul, Joseph, Stanley, Michael, John, Francis and sisters, Mary and Elizabeth. <br /> <br /> Interment will be private in Forest Lawn Memorial Park where she will rest with her husband. On Saturday, June 20th, 2026 a celebration of life honoring Helen will be held from 1-4 at The American Legion 316 Lake St, Elmira, NY. <br /> <br /> In lieu of flowers, please do something kind to help a neighbor or a stranger like Helen did.