David R. Helmling Sr.

David R. Helmling Sr, 92, of Kent, quietly passed away on Friday, April 5, 2024, in the comfort of his home, from advanced stages of Alzheimer’s. He was born on November 29, 1931 to the late Earl and Thelma Helmling, who were originally from Brimfield. 

It was in 1949, when he was 17 years old that Dave left the family farm in Stow and went to work for Harry Miller Excavating in Suffield.  While he was working, he was a member of the National Guard, but figured he was going to be drafted, so he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1952.  He went to Camp Pendelton in California for field training and landed in Korea on October 10, 1952.  A month later, he was struck with 11 pieces of shrapnel and spent three months on a hospital ship in Inchon Harbor.  Dave returned to the front lines until June 1953 when the truce was signed.  While there, Dave received several medals, including the Purple Heart.  After returning home, he started his own business, Dave Helmling Excavating and worked till the age of 84, doing what he loved most.

Over the years, Dave has worn many hats.  Having joined the Kent City Fire Department as a volunteer in 1970 and retired with 25 years of service.  While a volunteer, he opened Dave’s Co-op Laundromat on E. Main St. in downtown Kent and also ran a cabinet shop. 

Growing up, Dave hunted and fished and learned a lot about processing and dressing meat.  Especially working with his dad for years on the farm.  Of course, in another adventure, opening a meat shop, selling meat and processing 300 deer per season.  A lifetime of hard work was definitely in Dave’s blood.  He was forever proud of the work ethic he bestowed to all of his, and Mary Lou’s, six children.  He also made himself a pretty good name as a cook.  The many caterings and parties through the years brought great joy and fun.

Dave is survived by his wife Lynn (Paradis) Helmling, whom he married in 2004; sons, Dennis (Tony) Helmling of Florida and Dirk (Julie) Helmling of North Carolina; daughter Denise Casamento of Rootstown; sisters Shirley Rinehart and Kathy Kirby; brother Butch (Shirley) Helmling and many nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sons, Dwight, Darin and Dave Jr Helmling; brothers Rich and Robert Helmling; sister Betty Marshall; and mother of all six children, Mary Lou (Bentley) Helmling.

In honoring his wishes, Dave will be cremated and there will be no formal services.  In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.  Special thank you and appreciation to Crossroads Hospice and Palliative Care for all of your support.

Cremation services in the care of Bissler and Sons Funeral Home and Crematory, 628 W. Main St. Kent, OH 44240.

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