Helga M. Brosnan

Born in Amberg, Germany, Helga arrived in New York City as a toddler. She embraced city life and could be found roller skating, eating in automats and taking in new found friends. When her parents divorced, she became the main caregiver for her dear and physically challenged sister. Helga made every effort to share with her sister the wonders that she discovered beyond their doors.

When she serendipitously met her Joey at a party one night it was a match that lasted through 75 years of marriage. Together they raised their five children in seven states while serving our country and having plenty of adventures. While Helga didn’t serve directly, keeping the home fires burning and keeping the kids on the straight and narrow certainly can be appreciated.

In retirement Helga and Joe built a house in Port Charlotte and became snowbirds splitting their time between Florida and Cape Cod. Helga loved having parties with her neighbors and meeting new friends from England and other parts of our country. She also loved traveling to Colorado, Virginia, Massachusetts and New Hampshire to see her children and grandchildren.

After living for 100 years Helga was preceded in death by many who were very dear to her. Most notably her beloved husband, Joseph Brosnan, her father Julius Biennek, her mother Anna Ross Biennek Meister and her sister Florence Biennek.

She leaves behind her five children: Joann Brosnan, Daniel Brosnan (Betsey), Wendie Payne (Beverly), Jeanne Gardner (Bruce) and Deborah Brosnan. Seven grandchildren: Eric Brosnan (Celeste), Erin Parker (Lou B), Christine Bouren (Danny), Brian Cook, Joshua Cook, Daniel Brosnan and Jack Brosnan (Kelsey). As well as two step-grandchildren, three great grandchildren, one great-great grandchild plus one more on his way.

Hers was a life well lived.

Funeral service and burial will be at Sarasota National Cemetery, December 18, 2023 at 1:00 PM. Family and friends are welcome.

Those wishing to honor Helga’s memory please consider donations to Arbor Day Foundation (arborday.org) because growing things gave her much joy or Tidewell Hospice (tidewellhospice.org) who made her last few days comfortable.