Helen Betty (Alterio) Cowher

Surrounded by her loving family, Helen Betty (Alterio) Cowher formerly of Woodward, passed away at her home in Millheim on Wednesday, March 15, 2023.  She was 90.  Born August 12, 1932, in Bellefonte, Helen was a daughter of the late Vance and Anna (Tenalio) Alterio.  She was married to Joseph L. Cowher who preceded her in death.

Helen retired from the Laurelton State Village where she had worked in the housekeeping department.  She also had owned the former Mountain View Restaurant in Woodward and worked as bartender at the Millheim Legion and the former Handlebar in Millheim.  Helen was a member of the Trinity United Methodist Church and Ladies Aide in Woodward and a member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the American Legion Keystone Post 444 in Millheim.  Helen enjoyed decorating her home for each holiday, shopping, gambling, traveling and especially cooking and baking for her family with whom she loved to spend time with. 

Helen is survived by two daughters, Sue Neideigh (Courtney) of Aaronsburg and Brenda Bartley (Lewis) of Millheim: three sons, Rick Cowher (Patty) of Castanea, Buddy Cowher (Beth) of Millheim and Charles Cowher (Janet) of Centre Hall: eight siblings, Janet Hartman, Dorothy Thompson, Rosella Fetterolf and Anthony, Joey, Frank, Pete and Sonny Alterio.  Also surviving are fifteen grandchildren, Tammy Jo, Ricky, Ashley, Bobby Jo, BJ, Robert, Jr, Joey, Adam, Brian, Jamie, Colby, Daniel, Matt, Alexa and Joan: twenty nine great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren.  Helen was preceded in death by five children, JoAnn Osterhoudt, infant Holly Cowher, Joe “Butch” Cowher, Douglas Cowher, Sr., and Robert Cowher, Sr.: one grandson, Douglas Cowher, Jr. and siblings, Lucy Zimmerman, Phil and Jimmy Alterio, Rose Tressler, Nancy Fidgore and Mary Cleary. 

A visitation for family and friends will be held on Sunday, March 19, 2023, from 2:00 – 5:00 pm at the Steven R. Neff Funeral Home in Millheim.  The funeral service will follow at 5:00 pm Pastor Theresa Heiser officiating.  Helen will be laid to rest in Fairview Cemetery at a later date.  Contributions in her memory may be given to the American Cancer Society.  

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