Donald George Helmken, June 10, 1933-October 30, 2021, 88, of La Porte, Indiana, passed away Saturday, October 30, 2021 at Northwest Health-La Porte.

 

He was born June 10, 1933 in Michigan City, Indiana, the son of Harold Helmken and Ann (Hansen) Helmken.

 

A lifelong resident of the area, Donald graduated from Elston High School in Michigan City, before serving in the United States Navy, helping to protect our country during the cold war.   A baptized and confirmed Catholic, he was a member of the St Stanislaus Church in Michigan City, where he was involved in the St. Joe Club. On September 14, 1963, Donald married his loving wife of 58 years, Phyllis (Witowski) Helmken, who survives him.  Don retired over 20 years ago as a machinist with Joy Manufacturing. He enjoyed bowling, golfing and fishing. Donald's greatest passion was his family, especially his grandchildren and his beloved Maltese, Bella. 

 

In addition to his wife, Donald is survived by his son, Brad (Lisa) Helmken of La Porte, IN; daughters, Penny (John) Utpatel of Michigan City, IN and Valerie Cuzick of Knoxville TN; sister, Sue (Jack) Keller of Michiana Shores, IN; ten grandchildren, Brandon (Ariana) Helmken, Katelin Helmken, Luke Helmken, Stephanie (Corey) Gadd, Nicholas King, Hunter Friedrich, Cody Friedrich, Collin (Jennifer) Dingman, Casie Dingman, Cayla Dingman and 9 great-grandchildren.

 

Donald was preceded in death by his parents and his baby daughter, Tamara Marie Helmken.

 

Arrangements are being entrusted to Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 602 Maple Ave., LaPorte, IN where the family will receive friends from 11:00a.m. -1:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 3, 2021, with a Rosary at 12:45.  Interment will follow at the St. Stanislaus Cemetery, Michigan City, Indiana.

 

Memorial contributions may be made in Donald's honor to the St. Jude's Children's Hospital, www.stjude.org .

 

Online condolences may be made at www.haverstockfuneralhome.com.