Eric William Helke

Eric touched the lives of everyone he knew with his big heart. He will always be remembered for his kind, cheerful, positive, encouraging, and energetic personality, accompanied by a great sense of humor. Eric had a way of making people smile, and he made sure there was always lots of laughter, merriment, and jokes being shared in his presence. He had a caring soul, and accepted people unconditionally. He was a loyal friend, who always made a genuine effort with reaching out and relating to others by finding common interests and conversation topics.

Eric was a 2006 graduate of Page High School and a 2010 graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill. Since then, he had been employed by Apple, Inc. in various positions.

Eric was an avid sports fan, and especially loved all things Tarheel. He was an aficionado of fast cars, and particularly enjoyed owning and tinkering with German imports. Eric had a great enthusiasm for technology and electronics, which meshed well with his roles at Apple. He was passionate about music, cooking and eating good food, and animals. His dogs Lolly, Roo, and bearded dragon Mr. Reptar brought him much joy and companionship.

Those left to cherish Eric’s memory include the love of his life, Dana Fear; his parents, Bill and Pat Helke; brother, Marc Helke (wife-Kate; children-Charlotte and Max); brother, Adam Helke (wife-Kendall); grandmother, Helen Melillo; plus various aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends. Eric left all of us too soon, and will be deeply missed.

A memorial service/celebration of life is being planned by family and friends.

Memorial donations on Eric’s behalf may be made to Vintage Racers for Rescues (vintageracersforrescues.com) or the ACLU.