David Michael Helmlinger

David Michael Helmlinger, 81, of Wapakoneta, passed away at 10:10 p.m., Sunday, January 28, 2024 at Odem At Auglaize.  He was born on October 10, 1942 in Lima, to Lloyd E. and Ada "Lillian" Griffith Helmlinger, who have preceded him in death.  On February 28, 1964, he married Sharon A. Hamp, who survives in Wapakoneta.

Survivors also include three children, Mark David Helmlinger, of Lima, Thad Michael & Deanna Helmlinger, of Walkerville, MI, and Darcy Sue & Chad Coates, of Wapakoneta; nine grandchildren, Tiffany & Patrick Ferrier, Trisha Coates & Andy Hall, Amber & JT Legge, Brandon & Bryce Coates, Erika Helmlinger, Jared Helmlinger, Thea Kindinger, Tyler Kindinger, Melissa Kindinger; fourteen great-grandchildren; and a sister, Sue Metzger, of Wapakoneta.

Dave was raised on the family dairy farm, active in 4-H and FFA, showing beef cattle.  After graduating high school, he married Sharon and they began their life together.  A lifelong farmer, he farmed row crops before venturing into hog farming.  Not one to do anything half-way, Dave researched and was one of the first confinement hog raisers in the State of Ohio.  He truly was an innovator, hosting tours of his operation.  While still maintaining the farm, Dave and Sharon embarked on a 24-year career of team truck driving. Beginning with CR England and retiring from Rising Sun Express, they logged countless miles trucking to the west coast and back each week.  The family dog was always along for the ride and these trips sparked his interest in trees.  Always a nature lover, Dave would bring back numerous species of trees, creating a personal oasis, named Piney Park Arboretum.  He continued to maintain the arboretum as long as his health would allow.

Though there are many facets of Dave's life, two constants prevailed... his family and his faith.  A lifelong member of the Lutheran Church, he was active in the choir, deepening his love of hymns.  Dave was the steadfast leader of his family, keeping everything in line with the lists in his trusty notebook.  For almost 60 years, Sharon was beside him, ready to tackle his next adventure.  Dave passed on his love of 4-H, FFA and showing cattle to his children.  The grandchildren have many fond memories of playing with him or swimming in the pond.  Together they take comfort, knowing that Dave's life was lived to the fullest.

Services will begin at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, February 1, 2024 at Schlosser Funeral Home & Cremation Services.  Pastor Doug Pretorius will officiate and interment will follow in Greenlawn Cemetery.  Family and friends may gather from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.  Memorial contributions may be directed to the Parkinson's Foundation.