Obituary of Helen M. Rowan

Helen M. Rowan, 82, beloved wife, mother and grandmother passed away peacefully Sunday, November 13, 2016 at the Ellis Residential and Rehabilitation Center with her children at her side. Born in Amsterdam, NY on February 2, 1934, she resided both in Amsterdam and later Galway, NY. A daughter of the late Melena and Samuel Bursese, she was a graduate of Wilbur H. Lynch High School, Amsterdam, NY. She married her high school sweetheart, David A. Rowan, on September 11, 1955 and they enjoyed more than 60 years together until his passing on June 7, 2016. Helen was employed for many years at the Amsterdam Savings Bank, serving in both the checking and SBLI insurance departments. Whether it was PTA President, "Lunch Bunch" member, American Institute of Banking student, or president of the Resident Council at the Ellis Center, Helen was an active participant in whatever she set out to do. Her positive attitude and enthusiasm inspired others, creating life-long friends along the way. Helen was an incredible cook who was happiest surrounded by family and friends at her kitchen table. She also enjoyed crafts, often creating personalized items for her grandchildren. Survivors include her four loving children, Susanne C. (Bob) Doyle of Niskayuna, NY, Melena A.(Greg) Henzel of Loudonville, NY, John H.(Frances) Rowan III of San Antonio, Texas, and Grace A. Rowan of North Richland Hills, Texas. Eight cherished grandchildren, Ryan A. Doyle, Brendan F. Doyle, Breanna N. Rowan, Matthew D. Szal, David L. Rowan, Alexander J. Szal, Rudolph J. "Rudy" Henzel, and Catherine R. Henzel. One great- grandchild, Matthew D." Roman" Szal, Jr. Also survived by one sister, Carmella Oropallo, of Amsterdam, NY, one brother-in-law, James P. (Joan) Rowan of Dataw Island, S.C., several nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by a brother, Lawrence Bursese, and two sisters, Catherine Bursese, and Lena Bursese Alessi. The family wishes to thank the excellent staff on the Edison Wing at the Ellis Residential and Rehabilitation Center for their compassionate care throughout Mrs. Rowan's time at the center. A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, November 19, 2016 at 11:00 A.M. at St. Stephen's Roman Catholic Church in Hagaman, NY with Father O. Robert DeMartinis presiding. Interment will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery, Tribes Hill, NY. The family will receive relatives and friends on Friday, November 18, 2016 from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at the Betz, Rossi & Bellinger Family Funeral Home, 171 Guy Park Ave, Amsterdam, NY 12010. Memorial contributions may be made to Galway Emergency Medical Services, 2175 Galway Rd, Galway, NY 12074 or the Galway Food Pantry, 2167 Galway Rd.,P.O. Box 31, Galway, NY 12074. Online condolences may be made at www.brbsfuneral.com.