Leeland was born on July 4, 2018 to his devoted and loving parents, Elizabeth and Brian Helzer. As an infant, he was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder called 1p36 deletion syndrome. Though this disorder presents many physical, mental, and emotional challenges, Leeland’s fighting spirit persevered, allowing him to win many battles concerning his health and surpass several milestones that doctors were convinced to be impossible.
Nicknamed “lovebug” because of his A+ cuddling skills, Leeland was a boss and a charmer, full of insatiable spunk and personality. His beaming smile could draw the sun from even the darkest of storms, and his bright eyes were full of immense happiness that he perpetually shared with everyone around him.
Music was Leeland’s greatest love, next to his mama. He was a ‘Swiftie’ at heart, but avidly loved listening and moving to all different types. Racing with dad, watching the Red Wings, and eating ice cream were also at the top of the list of Leeland’s favorite things. He greatly enjoyed his time attending Bovenschen school, where he participated in the Special Olympics, went swimming, and made some wonderful friends. He adored “The Lion King”, and on his trip to ‘Give Kids the World’ last year, he was ecstatic to experience the live performance in the front row at Animal Kingdom.
Leeland’s physical presence has left us way too soon, but his light continues to shine through all he has done and in all he has loved. He will be dearly missed and forever remembered.
Leeland leaves behind his parents, Elizabeth and Brian Helzer. He is preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Sharron Ventimiglia, survived by his maternal grandparents Joseph (Joan) Ventimiglia, and paternal grandparents Harold (Cindy) Helzer. He is also survived by his Aunt and Uncles: Sara (Steve) Benson, Cory (Phil) Hubinsky, Jeff (Sherry) Swerbensky, Eric (Jacki) Swerbensky, and Mark (Jennifer) Swerbensky. He leaves behind cousins Bella, Diego, Lilly, Noah, Rebekah, and countless other family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, his parents are requesting that donations be made to two of the wonderful organizations that have supported Leeland on his incredible journey.
1p36deletion syndrome Support & Awareness.
https://www.1p36dsa.org/donate-now
Hospice of Michigan Anchors Program
https://anchors4children.org/donate/
Family will receive friends on Friday, June 6, 2025, from 2:00 - 8:00 pm, with a family sharing of memories at 7pm, at Kaul Funeral Home 28433 Jefferson Ave., St. Clair Shores, Michigan 48081.
Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, June 7th, at Evident Church, located at 52101 Gratiot Ave Chesterfield, MI, beginning with a gathering at 10:30am, until time of service 11:00 am.
