Helen Louene Abruzzini passed away peacefully on August 11, 2023 after a long and fulfilling life.

She was born to Dee and Dorothy Stiltz on December 11, 1932. Her beloved husband Leonard Abruzzini preceded her in death. She is survived by her three sons: Norman (Vicki), Paul (Susan) and David (Yvette) as well as four grandchildren: Daniel (Jill), Andrew (Kelsey), Bradley (Jenna) and Jacob (Kandace); five great grandchildren: Levi, Tessa, Claire, Brock and Parker.

Helen is also survived by her brothers Joe and Glen. Helen joins her sisters Donna Matulich and Joyce Pourroy.

Helen was born in Baker City, OR and the family moved to Valencia, CA before finally settling on Buena Vista Avenue in Gilroy when she was 10 years old.

She spent the remaining 80 years in the home she had built in 1965 on land her mother had given her.

Helen met Leonard years after his service in the Navy during WWII. Leonard Abruzzini also grew up on Buena Vista Avenue. They married in Carmel, CA on November 9, 1952.

Helen and Leonard's parents both had prune orchards, Helen's father Dee, sold his harvest to SunSweet here in Gilroy and Leonard's father Oscar, sold to Marrianis in Cupertino. Sometimes you don't have to look far for the love of your life.

Helen enjoyed working more than 28 years as a school secretary in the Gilroy Unified School District. She was forever grateful for all of the love she received throughout the years.