Helene Austin

Helene Austin passed away peacefully on November 7th, 2025 with loving people by her side. She was born in Clairton, Pennsylvania on January 24, 1937 to Vaso and Mildred Vujatovich. Helene was deeply proud of her Serbian heritage-often informing others, "I am Serbian." She was fond of her parents: her father, an immigrant from Serbia who worked in the steel mill, and her mother, a talented homemaker who could cook and sew anything-a gift Helene humorously admitted she never inherited.

Helene had a close relationship with her brother, Lewis, whom she often described as handsome and smart. She spoke of him with great admiration and love. Their bond remained impactful even after his life was tragically cut short at 17.

Helene graduated from Penn State University with a bachelor's degree in education, after which her life's calling took root. She loved teaching elementary children and building lasting friendships with fellow educators. Her career spanned several states, including Florida, California, and Illinois, but her heart belonged to St. Joseph, Michigan. There she taught first at Washington School and then spent many cherished years with fourth graders at E.P. Clarke.

Though Helene did not have biological children, she considered every student she taught as part of her extended family. Her students were her legacy-each one a reflection of her dedication and compassion. Many stayed in touch long after graduation, a testament to the lasting impact she made in their lives.

Friends were of utmost importance to Helene. Many friendships lasted her lifetime and they stayed close through traveling groups, book clubs, and social outings.

Helene was married for 15 years, and continued her deep relationship with her in-law family from Chicago. She became and will always remain "Our beloved Aunt Helene" whose warmth, kindness and smile will be missed. They hold so many memories dear. Celebrating holidays and special occasions together, sharing books and new jazz vocals, shoe shopping and of course enjoying Helene's famous Puppy Chow at Christmas. Helene had a fun sense of humor, sometimes mischievous with a twinkle in her eye. Helene was a sweet and gentle soul and she will always be carried in their hearts.

Helene's nurturing heart extended far beyond the classroom. After the passing of a dear friend who was taken too soon, she stepped into the role of surrogate mother, grandmother, great grandmother. She offered love, support, and wisdom, becoming a cherished presence in their lives. To them, she wasn't just a friend-she was family.

Although Helene lived most of her life in St. Joe, she spent many years traveling back to Pennsylvania to visit her beloved Uncle Mio. During this time, Helene formed a deep and lasting bond with her uncle's caregiver, Darlene, and her family. After Uncle Milo's passing in 2010, Helene and Darlene's relationship continued to blossom and they remained dear friends until Helene's passing.

Helene also had a deep love for animals, especially cats. Several cats found their way into her classroom, and when she was unable to find them homes, Helene adopted them herself. She had a very special bond with her cherished dog, Rommel, who brought her daily joy and companionship for many years.

The beaches of Lake Michigan were Helene's sanctuary. She found deep peace in sitting by the water, listening to the waves roll in. Watching sunsets at the beach was one of her favorite rituals, as well as walks along the piers. In honor of her beloved uncle Milo from Pennsylvania, she dedicated a bench at Silver Beach to him with the inscription: "This is why we live here."

Helene was known for her generous spirit and thoughtfulness. She consistently put others before herself. Her generosity extended beyond her personal relationships-she supported and donated to many causes close to her heart.

Helene was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Vaso and Mildred Vujatovich; her dear brother, Lewis; her uncles, including Milo Miscevich, extended family Kathryn Austin, Kay ("Sis") Fink, and Edward Fink.

She is survived by loving members of the Fink family, the honorary Trumbley and Angelo families, and a wide circle of colleagues, friends, and former students-many of whom she considered her chosen family. Helene's legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched.

A celebration of Helene's life will be on Wednesday, November 12th at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph, MI 49085. Friends may visit from 11:00 - 12:00. A Serbian funeral service will be performed at 12:00 followed by a burial at Hickory Bluff Cemetery, Stevensville, MI. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Alzheimer's Association and Corewell Health Hospice Care.

May her memory be a blessing, and may we all remember her compassion, generosity, and joy. She was loved by so many. She will be truly missed.