Huguette Evangelista

It is with heavy hearts and fond memories that we announce the passing of Huguette Evangelista, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister-in-law, and friend. Huguette left this world peacefully on May 24, 2026, at the age of 86, in the loving embrace of her daughter and son-in-law, Liz and Bob Engl, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on June 20, 1939, in the romantic city of Paris, France, Huguette was the cherished daughter of Lucian and Georgette (Kammersheit) Chenel. Her early years in Paris were filled with love and the vibrant culture of her homeland, which she carried with her throughout her life. In 1956, Huguette married the love of her life, Michael (Mike) Evangelista, on a beautiful autumn day in Paris. Together, they embarked on a journey that would lead them to build a life rich in love and family. Their union was blessed with four children: Elizabeth (Robert) Engl, Michael (Susan) Evangelista, Laurie (Mark) Becker, and the late Mary Evangelista Storms, whose passing, alongside her husband Mike, she mourned deeply. Huguette's nurturing spirit was evident in every aspect of her life. She was a dedicated mother and grandmother, whose love knew no bounds. Her grandchildren—Jennifer (Jason) Mauk, Derek Storms, Rachel (Robert) Taggert, Zachary (Janele) Storms, Anne Evangelista, Jaime (Reece) Willoughby, Christine (Brian) Fowler, Matthew, and Catherine Becker—were her pride and joy. She delighted in being a great-grandmother to Lexie and Emma Mauk, Hailey and Sidney Storms, Abby Taggert, and Callan Michael Storms, showering them with affection and knitted treasures. Education was a significant part of Huguette's life. She graduated with the equivalent of an associate's degree from Le Lycée Paris, an achievement that laid the foundation for her career as a French teacher. In the early 1960s, she shared her love of language and culture with students at Skaneateles High School and later as a substitute at Auburn High School. She also brought her creativity and warmth to JoAnn Fabrics in Auburn, where she worked for many years. Huguette was an active member of Holy Family Church for nearly 70 years, where she found a second family among her fellow parishioners. Her commitment to her faith and her community was unwavering, and she cherished the friendships she made there. In 1976, she proudly participated in the French group commemorating Auburn's All-American Bicentennial. A talented cook and seamstress, Huguette's home was always filled with the aroma of delicious meals and the hum of her sewing machine. She lovingly crafted clothing for her children and grandchildren, including beautiful dresses for Christmas, graduations, and proms. Her knitting needles were seldom still, as she created blankets, sweaters, and scarves, even teaching her Hospice aide the craft until her final days. Huguette was predeceased by her daughter Mary, her husband Mike, and her brother Claude Chenel. She leaves behind her beloved children, cherished sister-in-law Danielle Chenel, numerous nephews and nieces, and many close friends who became part of her extended family. Huguette Evangelista's life was a tapestry of love, creativity, and faith. Her nurturing spirit and joyful heart touched everyone she met, creating special memories for all who were fortunate enough to know her. As we bid farewell to this remarkable woman, we hold her memory dear and celebrate a life well-lived. A service in her honor will be held at a later date, where we will gather to remember her love, laughter, and legacy. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the local Hospice center, in gratitude for the care and compassion they provided during Huguette's final journey.