HELEN E. CHOKA, went peacefully to her Lord on Friday, Feb. 16, 2018, at Saint Anne Home surrounded by family. Born on March 27, 1929 in Fort Wayne, Ind., she was a daughter of Vasil and Olga (Paliganoff) Eshcoff. She attended Central High School and on June 29, 1947 married Russell V. Choka. Helen was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She had a generous, considerate heart and gave warmly of herself whenever there was a need. A daughter of Macedonian parents, she was proud of her heritage and renowned for her baking, especially her pitas! She loved her family business of 104 years, Fort Wayne's Famous Coney Island Wiener Stand. Upon her father's death, her husband became co-owner. Helen was deeply devoted to her Catholic faith, her family, friends and heritage. She appreciated these and all the joy and laughter that they brought to her in her nearly 89 years. She counted them as gifts from GOD. Helen, the image of elegance, lived the life of a faith-filled woman; a woman beloved and admired by those whose lives she touched. Helen and Russ were parents to Ron, Kathy, and Mike (Barbara Choka-Snider (John)) Choka. She was a proud grandmother to Andy (Elizabeth) Choka of Fishers, Ind., Matt (Stephanie) Choka of Fort Wayne, Ind. and great-grandmother to Mason Choka. Helen was the youngest of six children: Luba (Christoff), John, infant Helen, William, Robert. She is survived by her son and daughter; grandsons; great-grandson; brother, William (Norma); and sisters-in-law, Anita (Alex) Choka; Natka (Bobby) Eshcoff; Norma (Bill) Eshcoff; as well as many beloved cousins, nephews and nieces. She was preceded in death by husband, Russ; son, Michael; her sisters; and brothers, John and Bob. Mass of Christian Burial is noon Saturday, Feb. 24, 2018, at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 1122 S. Clinton Street, Fort Wayne (IN 46802), with visitation one hour prior to Mass. Monsignor Robert Schulte officiating. Viewing also from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 23, 2018, at Klaehn, Fahl, & Melton Funeral Home, 6424 Winchester Road, Fort Wayne (IN 46819). Burial will be in Greenlawn Memorial Park, 6750 Covington Road, Fort Wayne (IN 46804).

Published in Fort Wayne Newspapers on Feb. 21, 2018