John E. "Rudy" Helfer Sr.

He was the kind of man who could walk into a room full of strangers and leave with a dozen new friends. Hardworking, devoted to his family, and always ready with a joke or a story, he brought laughter and life wherever he went. He was truly the life of the party — full of fun, warmth, and a spirit that made everyone feel welcome.

Nothing made him prouder than his family. He cherished every moment spent with his children and grandchildren, especially the treasured family trips to Ocean City. Whether sitting on the beach, sharing meals together, or simply enjoying time surrounded by those he loved most, those moments meant everything to him.

A loyal fan of Notre Dame football, Saturdays during football season were sacred. You could often find him cheering on Notre Dame with a cold Bud Light nearby and his police scanner close at hand, enjoying the simple things that brought him comfort and joy.

He never met a stranger and had a remarkable gift for making people feel like old friends within minutes. His laugh was contagious, his stories unforgettable, and his presence impossible to ignore. He leaves behind countless memories filled with laughter, love, and the reminder to enjoy life fully.

Above all else, he will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, family man, and friend whose greatest joy came from being surrounded by the people he loved. His legacy of kindness, humor, and unwavering love for family will live on in all who knew him.

He is the beloved husband for 57 years to Viola “Vi” Helfer (nee Hamilton); son of the late Joseph Helfer and Dorothy Dinunzio Helfer ; devoted father of John Helfer, Jr., Tony Helfer and Brian Helfer,Sr.; cherished Poppy to Jessica, Kiersten, Jordan, Brian Jr., JT, Keith and Nick; great Grand Poppy to Tyler Jr., Travis, KJ, and Waylon; dear brother of Donna Debarge and the late Dorothy “ Booty” Hall, Joseph Helfer, “Sissy” Shirley Pinkham; brother in law of the late Albert “ Bud” Hamilton, III . He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and other caring family and friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather at the Burgee Henss Seitz Funeral Home, Inc., 3631 Falls Road, on Sunday, May 17,2026 from 2:00-4:00 & 6:00-8:00pm, where funeral services will be celebrated on Monday at 10:00am.

Interment Lakeview Memorial Park.