Helen B. Fabrizi, a beloved matriarch and community member, passed away peacefully on the evening of August 16, 2025, at the age of 98. She spent her final years at Sunnyside Care Center in East Syracuse, where she had resided for two years. Helen was known for her warmth and dedication to her family and friends, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew her.
Born on June 20, 1927, in Canastota, New York, Helen was the daughter of Salvatore and Irene Teller Bonaventura. She was a lifelong resident of Canastota and graduated from Canastota Central School in the Class of 1945. On June 19, 1948, she married Guerino Fabrizi at St. Agatha’s Church, a union that lasted until his passing on July 20, 1988.
Helen dedicated 44 years of her life to Key Bank as a teller before retiring. Her passion for education continued post-retirement, as she volunteered for 18 years as a teacher’s aide at South Side Elementary School in Canastota. Her commitment to learning was evident in her love for crossword puzzles and her enjoyment of the television show Jeopardy.
A devoted fan of the New York Yankees, Helen found joy in shopping and participating in local theatre through the Community Players Theatre. Her Catholic faith was an essential part of her life, guiding her values and community involvement.
Helen is survived by her daughter, Debra Norwalk (Walt Ulrich) of Canastota, and her son, Dennis Fabrizi (Susanne) of Rochester. She also leaves behind four grandchildren: Sara Buske (Ian Berry), Kate Norwalk (Mark Brennan), Thomas Fabrizi, and Alexis Fabrizi; along with one great-grandson, Daniel Buske. Additional family members include brothers Joseph Bonaventura (Leona) of Cherry Valley, California, and Harold Bonaventura of Canastota, as well as a sister-in-law, Joanne Fabrizi of Lysander. She was also cared for by her special friend, Linda Steffan of Canastota.
Helen was predeceased by three sisters: Dorothy Pugliano, Carol Robotham (George), and Betty Carroll; a brother, Salvatore Bonaventura; and a son-in-law, Daniel Norwalk.
Graveside services are scheduled for 11:30 AM on August 23, 2025, at 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. Arrangements are under the direction of the Campbell-Dean Funeral Home, Inc., located at 300 S. Peterboro Street, Canastota.
Friends and family are encouraged to leave messages of condolence at www.campbell-dean.com, honoring a life well-lived and a legacy of love and kindness.