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Helen Proto of Orange, formerly of East Haven, died on Feb. 7 at the Birmingham Health Center, Derby. She was the wife of the late Felix Proto, Sr. She was born in New Haven on April 5, 1927, to the late Anthony and Christina DePoto Coppola.

Many years ago Helen worked for SNET, as well as for her sons’ deli and sub shop Coppola Subs on Main Street, East Haven.

She is survived by three sons, Robert (Joan) Proto of Oldsmar, Florida, Michael Proto of New Haven, and Felix (Anita McCall) of Orange; as well as a daughter, Darlene Proto (Gary) Naccarato of Branford. She is also survived by 10 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. Helen was predeceased by a brother, Anthony Coppola; two sisters, Valentina Pepin and Pauline Vessichio; niece Roberta Pepin; and nephew Pat Vessichio.

A funeral Mass was celebrated Feb. 11 at St. Vincent de Paul Church. Burial was in East Lawn Cemetery. There were no calling hours. The East Haven Memorial Longobardi—Brennan Funeral Home, 425 Main St., East Haven, was in charge of arrangements. Please visit Helen’s memorial page at easthavenmemorial.com and sign her guest book.