John Robert Helminiak

Note: Funeral time changed to Wednesday, February 17, 2021 at 2:30 at the Reeb Funeral Home

John R. Helminiak, age 85, passed away peacefully in his sleep, at his  Springfield Township home, surrounded by his loving family, Friday February 12, 2021.  He was born May 25, 1935 in Holland, OH, to Bonnie (Luckey) and John Helminiak.  He married the love of his life, Betty Jo Shoemaker, June 8, 1957.    He was a member of Local 18 operator’s union, Oak Park Classic Car Gang, and Club 16.  Everyone who met John was his friend, and he was known for his contagious smile, and his wonderful sense of humor. He loved all animals especially horses and dogs. John spent many hours in his “Meat Shop” where he had a passion for making his homemade kielbasa as well as his homemade czarnina “Duck” soup,  which he shared just recently with both his brothers, Dick and Ray.  He retired after over 60 years working in the family excavating business, John Helminiak and Sons. He was proud to have served in the U.S. Army  National Guard, he was honorably discharged early to take care of his mother and sisters, while his brothers served in the U.S. Army.

John had a great love for children, especially his grandchildren for which he built a special playground, baseball diamond and tennis court on his several acres of land, which he enjoyed maintaining mowing grass, planting flowers and growing vegetables in his garden for many years.                                                                                                                                           He is survived by his wife, Betty Jo, children, Lori Helminiak, John, and Mike (Carolyn) Helminiak, grandchildren, Jason (Tiffany), Jacklyn, Kolby, Kylie, Lucas (Jenny), Carson (Danielle), Brady Helminiak and Katelyn (Todd) Twigg and many great-grandchildren, brothers, Dick (Dorye) and Ray.  He was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Marian, and Bonnie Jean.

 Friends and family may call at the Reeb Funeral Home, Sylvania, Monday February 15, 2021 from 4-8:00 P.M. where funeral services will be held, Tuesday, February 16,  at 11:00 A.M.  Interment to follow at Springfield Township Cemetery. 

The family suggests contributions to the Toledo Humane Society or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.  Online condolences to reebfuneralhome.com

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