Valeria Helona

Valeria Mae (Janek) Helona, age 90, of West, passed away early Thursday morning, September 18, 2025 at Baylor Scott & White Hillcrest Hospital in Waco.

Graveside service will be held 1:30 p.m. Monday, September 22, 2025 at St. Mary's Cemetery in West, with Rev. Ed Karasek officiating.

Valeria was born May 30, 1935 in Massey, the daughter of Frank and Wilma (Skarpa) Janek. She was a 1954 graduate of West High School. On November 24, 1954, Valeria was united in marriage to her husband, Willie Helona, in Abbott. Their bond was one of love and partnership, which continued until Willie's passing on September 22, 2006. A dedicated member of St. Mary's Catholic Church of the Assumption, Valeria's faith was a guiding light in her life. She also contributed her time and talents to the West VFW Ladies Auxiliary and was a member of the S.P.J.S.T. Lodge #6 of Cottonwood and R.V.O.S. #46 of Cottonwood. Valeria's skills as a seamstress at Lorch Manufacturing showcased her resourcefulness and creativity, while her fondness for cooking, baking, and sewing brought joy to her family and friends, particularly when she helped prepare meals for those in need at Aderhold Funeral Home, and for the Kiwanis Club of West.

Valeria is also preceded in death by her parents; sons, Daryl Helona and Edward Helona; sisters, Laverne Mikeska, Norma Janek, and Glenora Pustejovsky; and a brother, Jerry Janek.

Survivors include her many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Mary's Catholic Church of the Assumption or the charity of your choice.