Helena Prokopenko

HELENA PROKOPENKO, 75, of Jersey City, passed away on Tuesday, November 4, 2025.  Beloved
daughter of the late Nikolaj and Efymia (Krulikowska). Loving sister of Stephanie Pucowski and
her husband Emil, and to the late Gregory N. Prokopenko and his wife Maria. Beloved aunt
(Cioci) to Michael and Carla Pucowski, and Michele and Todd Temples. Loving great-aunt to
Jacklyn, Sebastian, Sydney, Nicholas, and Christopher. She was also a proud godmother to
many.  

Helena was born in Caracas, Venezuela, and came to the United States with her parents and
sister in 1960. She attended St. Mary’s Grammar School and graduated from James J. Ferris
High School.  Helen lived in Jersey City most of her life and cherished her Ukrainian and Polish
heritage.  She enjoyed listening to Polish music and loved attending dances and festivals with
her family and friends. 

Helena had a strong Catholic faith and was a devoted member of St. Anthony of Padua Church.
Helena’s family was everything to her, always putting their needs before her own. She had a
heart of gold, and anyone who knew her felt the warmth of her kindness and generosity. Helena
was always ready with a smile, a kind word, or a helping hand, making everyone feel welcomed
and loved. Over the years, Helena worked for many companies. For the past 20 years, she was a
beloved secretary at College Towers in Jersey City. While there, she was adored by both co-
workers and residents, leaving behind countless fond memories and lasting friendships.

Visitation is Sunday, November 9, 2025, 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Riotto Funeral Home &
Cremation Company, 3205 John F. Kennedy Blvd, Jersey City, NJ 07306. (For GPS navigation, it is
best to use the parking lot entrance address: 14 Stagg St.) Funeral is Monday, November 10 at
9:30 AM at the funeral home, followed by Catholic Mass at 10:30 AM at St. Anthony of Padua
Church, 457 Monmouth St. (Corner of 6th St.), Jersey City, NJ 07302.  Interment will follow at
Holy Cross Cemetery, 340 Ridge Road, North Arlington.

Helena Prokopenko’s journey on earth may have concluded, but her spirit and infinite kindness
will continue to inspire and comfort all who were blessed to know her.