WORCESTER-Helen E. (Forhan) Kokernak, 87, of 24 Paul Street, died Monday, January 17th in Oakdale Nursing Center. She leaves a son, Gerald J. Kokernak of Sterling, 3 daughters, Janice Kokernak of Holden, Ellen Zalesky of Worcester and Ann Marie Cleary of W. Boylston, a brother, Thomas Forhan of Worcester, a sister, Lillian Head of Holden, 9 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren, several nephews and nieces. A son, Thomas E. Kokernak of Shrewsbury died in 1970, 3 brothers, James, Martin and John Forhan predeceased her.
She was born in Worcester the daughter of John M. and Ellen (O’Connor) Forhan and graduated from Commerce High School. Mrs. Kokernak worked as a receptionist for Hahnemann Hospital for many years. She loved to bowl and was an avid gardener.
The funeral is Thursday, January 20th with a Mass at 9:30 AM in Our Lady of Good Counsel, 111 Worcester Street, West Boylston. Burial will be in St. John’s Cemetery. Calling hours are private. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Epilepsy Foundation, 4351 Garden City Drive, Landover, MD, 20785. O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue is directing arrangements.