Chmielewski, Helen Lorraine Danko

ALBANY — Helen Lorraine Danko Chmielewski, 83, formerly of Albany, died peacefully Monday, July 5, 2021, at Our Lady of Mercy Life Center in Guilderland.

She was born on May 22, 1938, at 285 Lark Street, the younger of two daughters born to the late John "Jack" Danko and Alice Charron. A lifelong resident of Albany, Helen attended Vincentian Institute, Kenwood Convent of the Sacred Heart, Public School #4, and finally Ladycliff Academy in Highland Falls. After her education, Helen began to work for the County of Albany as a clerk, a job which she held for 43 years, until 1999. Many of her long-time colleagues became her most dear friends. After her retirement Helen volunteered at the Ronald Mcdonald House Charities for over 15 years.

Helen was married on September 7, 1963, at St. Catherine of Siena in Albany, to Philip Chmielewski, whom she met through the Polish American Club. Helen and Phil were married for 36 years until Phil’s death on November 27, 1999.

Helen was also predeceased by her nephew Mark Williams; ex-brother-in-law

John H. Williams; niece Lori Lather; as well as lifelong friends, Gloria Dame and Nancy Couchot.

With no children of her own Helen played a vital role in the upbringing of her niece and nephews, the children of her sister Mary, who survives her. She was devoted to her extended family and wholeheartedly poured herself into their lives and hobbies, whether that be baseball, bowling, card collecting, or genealogy.

Helen loved beaches, and formerly was an avid seashell collector. To her most any day could be a beach day, a little rain never stopped her.

In addition to her sister Mary and brother-in-law Michael Wynn, Helen is survived by her nephew John D. (Laurie) Williams; grandnephews, Bill (Caitlin), Jack, and Christopher (Victoria) Lather, Heath Williams, and AJ Williams; one grandniece Allie Williams; six greatgrandnieces, one greatgrandnephew, and several cousins. Helen touched the lives of many people, and many friends and acquaintances also survive her.

Services will be private and at the discretion of her family. Burial will be in Our

Lady of Angels Cemetery in Colonie.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ronald Mcdonald House Charities of the Capital Region, or a charity of the donor’s choice.

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