Obituary
Loving wife, mother and grandma, Helga Giannantonio passed away on March 8, 2025 at the age of 89. Born in Leipzig, Germany, she moved to Long Island, NY in 1958.She married Michael Giannantonio in 1961. Together, they raised two children, daughter, Cindy, and son, Stephen. She earned her Master’s Degree from Stony Brook University in 1984. In 2009 Helga and Michael started a new chapter of their lives in The Villages, Florida, forging many wonderful friendships and memories.
While on Long Island, she loved singing in the Lutheran choir, participating in the Three Village Garden Club, and she loved teaching at the Lutheran School in St. James, NY. In Florida, she enjoyed playing golf, mah-jongg, gardening, bird-watching and going for many walks in the beautiful landscape.
Helga is survived by her husband, Michael of 63 years, her daughter, Cindy Sommer and her husband, Robert, and her son, Stephen Giannantonio and his wife, Dr. Marnie Kula Giannantonio, and her adoring grandchildren, Samantha, Sabrina, and Alexander. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Monika Berry and Penny (Gerda) Curtis.
Helga will be remembered for her wonderful German traits – humor, stubbornness, honesty, true friendships, and the ability to make people smile.
Helga’s family will hold a Celebration of Life at the Manatee Recreation Center, 1512 Hillsborough Trail, The Villages, FL, on May 24, 2025 from 11AM-2PM with memorial service starting at 11AM, food and refreshments following. Cremation burial at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida on May 27, 2025, 10AM.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests friends consider planting a tree in her memory through A Tree To Remember – Https://shop.alivingtribute.org
Our most deepest sympathies on the passing of Mrs G. Such a wonderful lady and so welcoming to us always.
Thinking of you all. Sending love and prayers. May she rest in peace.
Love, Jim, Diane, Andrew, Kevin and Scott Martin