WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. — Helen Anne Sohl DeRose, 88, of Williamstown died Monday, March 21, 2016, at Berkshire Medical Center.



She was born in Cambridge, N.Y., on June 28, 1927, daughter of Philip and Anna Bauholzer Sohl. She grew up on a farm, where she developed a strong love for animals, especially dogs. Growing up during the Great Depression, she was a strong woman who took great pride in her work.



Mrs. DeRose owned and operated the Green Valley Motel, a family business for almost 50 years until becoming ill in 2013. She also worked as a cook at Williams College for almost 20 years. She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother to her family.

 

She was the widow of Louis Vincent DeRose, who died on March 24, 1993. They were married on Nov. 2, 1957.

 

Survivors include one daughter, Luanne Spooner of Thompson, Conn., and two sons, Anthony J. DeRose of Williamstown and Richard DeRose of Dalton; two granddaughters whom she loved dearly, Rachel DeRose of Dalton and Lauren DeRose of Adams; and one nephew, Joseph Sohl of Pownal, Vt.



She was predeceased by one sister and one brother, Catherine Sohl and Joseph Sohl.



Funeral notice: A Memorial Mass for Helen DeRose will be celebrated on Saturday, May 14, at 11 a.m. at Sts. Patrick and Raphael Church. Burial will follow in Eastlawn Cemetery. There are no calling hours. Flynn & Dagnoli-Montagna Home for Funerals is in charge of arrangements.



Memorial donations may be made to the ASPCA for the care and adoption of animals.