Helga F. Smirnow 1931-2025

Helga was born Feb. 28, 1931, in Neichen, Germany, the daughter of the late Paul and Frieda Etzold Konig. She eventually made Youngstown her home, where she built a life centered around faith, family and community.

On Nov. 24, 1955, Helga married George Smirnow. Together, they embarked on a journey to the United States in 1957, settling in Youngstown, where they raised their family. Their time together was tragically cut short with George’s passing on Feb. 7, 1972, but Helga carried on with resilience and devotion to her loved ones.

For 25 years, she worked diligently at the William P. Pollock Company / GATX before retiring.

Beyond her career, Helga was deeply involved in her church and community. As a devoted member of Holy Trinity Serbian Orthodox Church, she was an active participant in the Circle of Serbian Sisters for over 50 years. She found joy in volunteering at the church’s fish fry, preparing kolache and contributing to the beloved chicken paprikash dinners.

Helga had a gift for knitting and crocheting, often creating treasured pieces for her family. She found peace sitting on her porch, and in her younger years, loved camping and polka dancing. But above all, her greatest joy came from time spent with her family, whom she loved dearly.

Helga leaves to forever cherish her memory, her two daughters, Nancy (Bill) Musser and Mary Ann Richards, both of Youngstown; four grandsons, Justin Latimer, Brandon (Shauna) Latimer, Robert (Amy) Latimer and Paul (Naydene) Latimer; a granddaughter, Melina Yukon; and seven great-granddaughters, three great-grandsons and a great-great-granddaughter, who all affectionately called her “Oma.” She will also be fondly remembered by her extended family in Canada, Florida and Germany.

In addition to her husband, Helga was preceded in death by one sister and three brothers.

Private services were held Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025, at Kinnick Funeral Home in Youngstown.

Helga was laid to rest in Belmont Park Cemetery.

“Ruhe in Frieden”

Visit kinnickfuneralhome.com to send condolences to Helga’s family.

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