Theodore Paul "Ted" Helmich

Theodore Paul (Ted) Helmich, 74, died Monday, March 25, 2013 at his home in Benton, Arkansas. He was born March 27, 1938 in Benton to Edward and Edna (Hill) Helmich of Benton. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Glenda (Revis) Helmich; son, Bryan Helmich (Vanessa) of Wylie, Texas; daughter, Marna Helmich Musteen (Jason) of West Point, New York; and grandchildren: Victoria, Nicholas, and Elizabeth Helmich and Rachel and Thomas Musteen. Siblings Irene Schrader of Alexander, Helen Auw of Ontario, Ore., Arthur (Shirley) Helmich of Benton and Clarence (Dorothy) Helmich of Whitehouse, Tenn. also survive him, as well as sisters-in-law Caroline Helmich and Annalee Helmich. He is predeceased in death by his parents, brothers Edward and August and sister Lucille Seibert. Ted graduated from Bryant High School and attended Arkansas Tech University. After two years in the U.S. Army as a mechanic, he graduated with honors from the University of Arkansas with a degree in mechanical engineering. Ted retired from ALCOA after 28 years of service. A member of Zion Lutheran Church Avilla, he served in various leadership positions. A devoted follower of Christ, Ted shared his faith in words and deeds to his family, friends, and new acquaintances. He was quick to use his interests and gifts to help others by sharing from his garden, fixing about anything, and offering his time to teach a skill or just listen. Family gatherings were a favorite of Ted's, cherishing times when all were gathered under the same roof and around the same table. Ted loved greatly, in many expressions - his children and grandchildren are blessed to have benefitted from that love. His relationship to Glenda was a beautiful example of God's intentions for marriage. Visitation is planned for 6-8 p.m. April 5, 2013 at Ashby Funeral Home in Benton with funeral services and interment at Zion Lutheran Church Avilla on April 6, 2013 at 10 a.m. Pallbearers are Tom Bennett, Dick Hoffman, Doug Mays, Bob Maertens, Gary Hoppe, and Louis Seiter. In lieu of flowers, family requests contributions to Zion Lutheran Church Avilla or Arkansas Hospice. Online guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com.