Helen (Ogrodnik) Ricciardello

Helen Ricciardello, a longtime resident of Quincy, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, September 1, 2025. She was 99.

She was born in Gilbertville, a village in the town of Hardwick, Massachusetts, to Sophie (Miodowski) and Frank Ogrodnik. She grew up on a farm living with family members of 3 generations. After graduating from Hardwick High School, she was accepted into Salem State College. She resided with a local family while she earned her bachelor’s degree in education. After graduating from college in 1947, she pursued a career in teaching at a high school on Martha’s Vineyard. A couple of years later, she was invited to a get together in Quincy where she met Frederick Ricciardello whose sister was hosting the event. Evidently it was love at first sight since they married 2 weeks later and settled in Quincy to start a family. Helen stayed home with their three sons and was the office manager and bookkeeper for her husband’s plumbing company.

In her spare time, Helen often walked her neighborhood, tended to her garden, spent time at Wollaston and Nantasket Beaches, and she enjoyed listening to classical music. She will be remembered for keeping the perfect balance of strength and love for her family and friends.

Beloved wife of the late Frederick Ricciardello for over 60 years. Devoted mother to Fred Ricciardello of Blue Ridge, GA, and the late Robert and Steven Ricciardello. Loving sister to the late Edward Ogrodnik. Longtime loving friend to James Smith. Also survived by many nieces and nephews.

A burial will be held privately at the Blue Hills Cemetery at a later date.