Helen (Oros) Bowers

Helen Mary Oros Bowers, 92, of Webster, NY, and formerly of South Otselic, NY, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 15, 2023, at Rochester General Hospital, Rochester, NY.

Born in Pitcher, NY, on February 12, 1931, Helen was the daughter of the late Julius and Rosa Torkos Oros.  She was a 1949 graduate of Cincinnatus Central School. Although she grew up on the Oros Family Farm in Cincinnatus, Helen knew at an early age she was not destined to work in the barn, so after graduation she attended Central City Business Institute in Syracuse to become a secretary and soon thereafter embarked upon a 17-year career in the typing pool at Norwich Eaton Pharmaceuticals.  Through a mutual friend, Helen met a tall, dark, and handsome fellow named Bill who ultimately became her husband and partner for life and made South Otselic their home for 54 years.

With the impending arrival of a baby boy, Helen left her job and transitioned to homemaker and mom. She quickly embraced both roles by learning how to cook and bake, keeping the cleanest house in the county with her trusty Electrolux vacuum cleaner, and being a strong supporter of her family. At her son’s sporting events, Helen was not shy in providing an audible “Oh Billy!” when he chased a bad pitch or missed a free throw, but if she overheard someone else’s criticism in the crowd, she would confront the critic with no hesitation. Helen enjoyed dancing at family weddings, traveling with her family, and visiting family and friends “back home” after moving to Webster. Later in life, as her vision waned and her grandchildren arrived, Helen continued religiously to do her daily chores, and attend and enjoy her grandchildren’s school, sports, and music events.

She is survived by her husband of 62 years, William M. Bowers, a son, William J. (Theresa) Bowers, granddaughter Olivia, and grandson, Max, all of Webster. She also leaves behind her sister-in-law, Elaine Oros; several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Helen was the last surviving child of Julius and Rosa. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her brothers, Julius Oros, Jr., Joseph Oros, John Oros, and Louis Oros; and sisters, Rose Burrows, and Margaret LeFevre.

A memorial service for Helen will be held at the United Methodist Church of South Otselic on Friday, October 20, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. with Reverend Carl Johnson officiating.  There will be no prior calling hours.  Burial will be in Valley View Cemetery at a later date.