Helen Ann (Kaniclides) Menegos

Helen Ann (Kaniclides) Menegos, 84, died peacefully in her sleep on October 13, 2022. Born in Warren, Ohio on April 12, 1938, and growing up in Niles, she called Akron home for the past 50 years. Helen is preceded in death by her parents Andrew and Josephine (Tedesco) Kaniclides, beloved sister Madeline Keeley, and sister-in-law Leah Kaniclides. Survivors include brother George Kaniclides, brother-in-law Terry Keeley, Sr, daughter Melanie (Oscar) Morris, Jr, son Mark Menegos, grandchildren Christopher Morris, Timothy Morris, Andrew (Katy) Menegos, Ashley (Justin) Owen and Danielle Menegos. She also leaves great grandchildren Maddie, Joey, Owen, Miles and Faith, Godchildren Susanna (Kenny) McKeithan and Bryan (Melissa) Keeley, and other cousins, nieces and nephews. Helen was also blessed with several lifelong friendships with people she considered her family. A few of these friends have preceded her in death while others are still part of her earthly family.

Helen started her career working in admissions at several vocational schools where she enjoyed helping young people start on their path to various trades such as medical and dental assisting. She then changed focus and enjoyed several decades working with seniors as they transitioned from their houses to independent community living. She loved helping them adjust to a new lifestyle by planning dinners and parties for many celebrations. She was also a proud member of the Greek philanthropic ladies’ organization Daughters of Penelope. For over 40 years she was involved in the local Themis #28 Chapter holding many offices locally, regionally and nationally. She was the proud recipient of the local and district Penelope of the Year award.

Perhaps Helen’s deepest love was for her church family. She was a dedicated member of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in Akron volunteering for events, programs and projects over the years. She loved working at the annual Greek Festival where she had the opportunity to share her heritage and faith with the Akron community. The highlight of her many civic, cultural and service activities was when she was asked to join the Annunciation Church Board of Trustees. Her proudest achievement was when she was elected president of the Board, the first woman to hold that position not only in Akron, but in the United States.

As Helen’s health declined, she underwent rehabilitation therapy at both Ohio Living Rockynol and the Village of St. Edward, eventually becoming a resident at the Village of St. Edward. In spite of Helen’s reluctance to admit to aging, all staff members treated her with loving respect and her family is very grateful for the wonderful care they provided.

Services will be held at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church (129 S. Union St., Akron, OH 44304) at 11 am on Friday, October 21, 2022 with visitation one hour prior. Burial will take place at 2 pm at The City of Niles Cemetery (1213 Niles-Cortland Rd, Niles, OH 44446). In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Haven of Rest Ministries (175 East Market Street, Akron, OH 44308) or Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church Scholarship Fund.

May her memory be eternal.

Services in care of The Billow Funeral Homes & Crematory, Fairlawn Chapel, 85 N. Miller Road  Akron, OH  44333