Helen Lavan

Helen LaVan, of Bethlehem, died on Thursday, April 28, 2016 at the age of 100. She was born in Bethlehem; daughter of the late John and Theresa (Sebjanics) Kousz. Helen was the devoted wife of 67 years to the late, John C. LaVan. They were married on December 2, 1939.

Helen was a 1935 graduate of Liberty High School. Prior to her marriage to John, Helen worked in the Department of Labor and Industry for the State of Pennsylvania. She then put her career on hold to dedicate her life to her family. Once her children were grown, Helen worked at the former Orrs for 21 years. Helen was a member of St. Johns Windish Evangelical Lutheran Church where she was a member of the Altar Society and the Ladies Group.

Helen was an avid gardener and enjoyed working among the flowers in her beautiful garden. She was the happiest when she was surrounded by her family and enjoyed hosting all of their celebrations. A real passion in her life was traveling. Even though she traveled to Russia, Egypt and the Holy Land, Helens highlight was always driving across country to be with her son, John. She was a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

Helen will be dearly missed by her daughter, RoseAnn Pastir, wife of Robert; her son, John S. LaVan and his wife, Cindy; five grandchildren, Jennifer Lucci; Robert Pastir; Patrice Fortin; Christine LaVan and Natalie LaVan. She is also survived by 10 great-grandchildren, Angelo, Dominic, Rocco and Bruno Lucci; Jack and Abby Pastir; and Katie, Cole, Libby and Grace Fortin. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Steve and John and sister-in-law, Eloise Kousz.

The Connell Funeral Home is honored to assist in the service for Helen which will be held 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 30, 2016 at St. Johns Windish Evangelical Lutheran Church, 617 E. 4th St. Bethlehem, PA 18015. The family will receive guests at the church from 10:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Interment will be held at Bethlehem Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to the church.

Cemetery
Bethlehem Memorial Park
1851 Linden St.
Bethlehem PA 18017
US

Visitation
Saturday, April 30, 2016
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
St. John's Windish Evangelical Lutheran Church
Bethlehem PA 18015
US

Service
Saturday, April 30, 2016
10:30 AM
St. John's Windish Evangelical Lutheran Church
Bethlehem PA 18015
US

Funeral HomeConnell Funeral Home, Inc.
245 East Broad St.
Bethlehem PA - 18018
US
610-868-8531