There will be a visitation from 10am to 11am on Friday October, 13, 2023 at the Runge Mortuary & Crematory Davenport. Graveside services will be held 11:30am at the National Cemetery Rock Island. Please meet at the mortuary to process to National Cemetery by 11Am. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, American Cancer Society, or Christ Church Davenport. Condolences may be shared at www.rungemortuary.com.
Dan was born October 16, 1948 in Algona, IA to Harold & Ellavene (Shipler) Helmers. Dan enlisted in the US Navy in February of 1967, and served during Vietnam. Dan was on the USS Lofberg Destroyer, in support of troops in Vietnam. He was honorably discharged in December of 1973.
After serving his country, he worked as a heavy equipment operator with the local 309 labors union for 7 years. He then began working at the Rock Island Arsenal, where he retired from the Corps of Engineers after 28 years as a heavy mobile equipment operator in 2013.
Dan belonged to the Christ United Methodist Church in Davenport, IA, where he enjoyed his church friends and family. He enjoyed having picnics with family and gathering during the holidays.
Dan is survived by his son, Mike P. Helmers; grandson, Craig R. Helmers; sisters, Judy (Brian S.) Sinkler and Pam (John E.) Evans; brother, Dean (Lillian H.) Helmers; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends, including his best friend, Carlos Olvera, good friend in Christ.
Dan is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Denny and George; and sisters, Marsha Kerns and Katie “Kay” Evans.
