Obituary of Richard J. Helbling

Richard J. Helbling, 91, of Rexford, passed away peacefully on Saturday December 24th.

Beloved husband of 66 years to Nancy Lou (Stewart) Helbling; Father of Stephen (Ann) Helbling, Martha (Kevin) Bowman, Andrew (Sherrie) Helbling, and Christopher (Gina) Helbling; Grandfather of 7; Great Grandfather of 12. He was predeceased by his brother Edward (Carmela) Helbling.

Richard served in thanager. His career involved traveling, Richard and his family moved from his home state Pennsylvania to Vermont, and then settled in Rexford, New York. A temporary assignment in Arizona came up in the US Navy for nearly five years during the Korean War as a radio mechanic, which got him into the emerging computer industry as a career path. He worked for GE and Honeywell Field Engineering, working through the ranks and eventually retiring as a District M after lengthy discussions with his wife Nancy Lou they locked up the house, packed up the whole family and drove across the country. While in Arizona he and Nancy Lou planned family visits to as many National Parks and attractions as possible during the year-long stay, in addition to the cross country drives.

He was an accomplished handyman, building various electronic and audio equipment and many wood projects, one of which was a custom camp kitchen to simplify meal preparations for the numerous family camping vacations. Richard decided to use Volkswagen buses rather than the standard family station wagons, which made for some slower road trips hauling four kids, the family cat and dog, along with the camping trailer and other gear.

Richard was an active member of the churches he attended and served as treasurer and deacon across the years. He will be remembered as a man who avoided arguments, preferring to talk things out, however long that took; and of having a number of humorous pet phrases when it came to family discipline and fatherly advice.

Military honors and committal service will be held 9 AM on Tuesday, January 10th at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery. Family and friends are welcomed to attend. Online condolences may be made at glenvillefuneralhome.com