William M Helmke

Our Father, William M. Helmke (Bill, Billy, Sweet William, Big Bad Bill, Dad, Daddy, Pops, and Papa Bill) went home to the Lord at the age of 88, on Thursday, September 28, 2023, surrounded by his family. He was preceded in death by our mother, Janet whom he was married to for over 53 years, his brother James Helmke, and Sisters Carol Komlosy and Dottie Jo Helmke; his parents, Martin and Dorothy Helmke and his "daughter-in heart" Sibyl Wilson whom he loved as his own.

A devout Catholic, he attended Catholic school and was an altar boy. As an adult, he served in the Knights of Columbus. He proudly served in the United States Navy and was a Metal Lather in Local 46 for over 35 years where he trained many of his siblings, his son, and many nephews in his trade before retiring.

Born in the Bronx, NY to Martin and Dorothy Helmke and one of eleven children. James, Thomas(Diane), Eileen Winter, Carol(Frank) Komlosy, Lynne(Lou) Stoeckicht, Martin(Rita) Helmke, Mary(Pat) Discala, Joseph(Diane) Helmke, Peggy(Frank) Scarpulla, Dottie Jo, and many nieces and nephews.

Dad loved his family, friends, and neighbors and became a "Brother" to so many in his lifetime. He loved helping and being needed, His purpose in life was to serve. He enjoyed taking care of his yard and took great pride in everything he did. Loyal and honorable, and a true example of a hardworking loving Husband, Father, Grandfather, great Grandfather, and Brother.

He is survived by his wife, Joan of 15 years, his children; William (Christine) Helmke, Theresa (John) O'Farrell, Steven (Christina) Helmke, Keith (Lori) Helmke, as well Oliver Freitag and Sibyl Wilson whom he loved as his very own, and his fur-baby Sassy who brought him such joy for 16 years.

His Grandchildren; Kristen(Ryan) Mills, Joseph Costanzo, Michael Velez and Jake Velez, Jamie(Josh) Schrock, Alex(Ali) Helmke, Sydney Helmke, Jase Helmke, Laura(Steven) Shaffer, Samantha(Jesse) Muniz and Keith Wilson.

Great Grandchildren; Andrew Mills, Adalyn Mills, Skylar Schrock, Gabriella Helmke, Mia Helmke, Ava Shaffer, and Tony Shaffer.

Step-Children; Tom(Karen) Sheppard, Richard(Lisa) Sheppard, and Lynn Sheppard, and many step-grand and great-grandchildren.

His words " I was blessed with 2 beautiful wives in my lifetime that I loved and that loved me. Kids that I am so proud of, and being called Papa by so many - is the best. I have no regrets and have nothing that I left unsaid. God blessed me with so much love in my life and I couldn't be more thankful"...

In lieu of flowers please feel free to donate in his name to Good Shepherd Hospice, Lakeland FL 33805.

https://www.chaptershealth.org/foundation/good-shepherd-hospice-donation/

SERVICE time 1:00 pm at Sylvan Abbey Memorial Park

2853 Sunset Point Rd, Clearwater FL 33759

CELEBRATION OF LIFE luncheon from 2pm-4pm following the service across the street from the Memorial Park in the Reception venue. The family kindly requests that small children do not attend the reception. If you are able to attend, please email [email protected] before Wednesday so that we have a count for the catering.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.sylvanabbey.com for the Helmke family.