Beloved Matriarch Helen Meisl Passes Away at 95 in Sandisfield

Helen Meisl, a cherished matriarch and long-time resident of Sandisfield, passed away peacefully at her home on January 3, 2026. She was 95 years old. Her life was marked by resilience and a deep commitment to her family, which she nurtured through countless gatherings and shared moments.

Born on October 9, 1930, in Obertiefenbach, Gottschee, Helen emigrated to the United States in 1948 after her family lost everything during World War II. She initially settled in Ridgewood, New York, where she met her husband, Josef Meisl. The couple shared a loving marriage that lasted for 50 years and was blessed with six children.

In 1972, Helen and her family relocated to Sandisfield, where she became a beloved member of the community. Known for her feisty spirit and strong work ethic, she dedicated her life to her family and instilled values of love and generosity in her children and grandchildren.

Helen’s greatest joy came from spending time with her family. She was a constant presence at family gatherings, birthdays, holidays, and important life events. Her grandchildren affectionately referred to her as “Grandma Hatzy,” a name that embodied the warmth and love she provided.

In addition to her family devotion, Helen had a passion for gardening and cooking. Many cherished memories were created in the kitchen, where she shared her culinary skills and family recipes. Her dishes will be passed down through generations, reminding her loved ones of the joy she brought to their lives.

Helen was the youngest of five children and was preceded in death by her husband, Josef, her parents, George and Anna Stefandl, and siblings John Stefandl, Anne Neu, Josephine Ahrens, and Mutchie Kromer. She is survived by her six children: Edeltraud Thomason and her husband Robert, Josef Meisl and his wife Brenda, Irene Concannon, Katherine Meisl and her partner Helen McDermott, Stephan Meisl and his wife Kellie, and Nancy Sullivan and her partner Robert Hawley.

Her legacy also includes 11 grandchildren: Josef Meisl and his wife Annie, William Meisl, and Liberty, Lantana, Bobbi, Hope, and Keith Thomason, along with Stephanie Regan and her husband Chris, Brigit Nastro and her husband James, Michelle Ingrassia and her husband Jim, and Benjamin Meisl. In addition, she leaves behind 12 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Her funeral service will be held on January 8, 2026, at 10 a.m. at the Birches-Roy Funeral Home, located at 33 South St., Great Barrington, Massachusetts. The service will be officiated by Fr. Robert Miskell. Burial will follow at Sandisfield Center Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on January 7 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the funeral home. Condolences can be made through the funeral home’s website.

Helen Meisl will be remembered for her unwavering spirit, generosity, and the profound love she shared with her family and friends, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations.