Obituary of Helga E Leash

Helga E. Leash, 83, of the Brookfield section of Belvidere New Jersey, passed away peacefully at her home on July 1, 2024 surrounded by her devoted daughters. Helga was born on December 27, 1940 in Weinheim Germany to the late Otto and Emilie “Schroder “ Schmitt. Helga endured much while surviving the war, and described gripping accounts of running to the bunkers for safety as a small child with her mom and siblings. This created strength and courage, along with a great sense of humor which she carried throughout her life. She immigrated to the United States with her family in 1948. She was employed by Hillsborough Township for 20 years, starting as a Clerk to the Township Engineer, and then promoted to office manager of the engineering department for her excellent work and dedication. Helga then transferred to the finance department as clerk to the tax collector and treasurer, where she remained until her retirement in 2008. Helga was very active in the community and participated in many activities, including bingo and being part of the bocce ball team. She enjoyed spending time at the community pool with her granddaughter, Gracie. She also enjoyed shopping and dining adventures with her granddaughter, Giana. Her husband, Michael Leash Jr passed away in 2015. They were high school sweethearts and will be celebrating their 65th wedding anniversary this July, reunited again in Heaven. Helga is survived by her daughter, Deborah and husband Nicholas Scarpitto Jr and daughter, Jennifer Peters and beloved granddaughters, Giana and Grace Peters. Helga was preceded in death by her son, Michael D Leash in 1999. Helga was a social butterfly. She loved being surrounded by her family and friends. She enjoyed cooking and was known for always having a huge feast. She is survived by two of her lifetime, friends, Barbara Malinowski, and Sue Valian, whose friendships were a constant for over six decades. She was also surrounded by many wonderful, caring friends in the community and Blessed Hope Church of the Nazarene family. Cherished mom, adored Gannie and steadfast friend. You will be sorely missed. Family and friends may pay their respects on Sunday July 7, 2024 from 6-8 PM at the Warren Hills Memorial Home. 234 W. Washington Ave. Washington, NJ 07882. A funeral service celebrating Helga’s life will begin at 8:00 PM at the funeral home. In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Helga’s name to Blessed Hope Church of the Nazarene, 42 Mercer St., Phillipsburg, NJ 08865 Or Saint Jude’s research Hospital, 501 Saint Jude Pl., Memphis TN 38105–1942.http://www.stjude.org Funeral Arrangements have been entrusted to Warren Hills Memorial Home. To send an online condolence please visit www.warrenhillsmemorialhome.com