Ronald George Helker Ronald George Helker, Ron fought a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer for nearly a year but peacefully passed away at home, surrounded by his family on October 3, 2012. Ron was born in Philadelphia on September 21, 1932 to George and Marion Helker.He was raised in Drexel Hill and graduated from West Catholic High School for Boys in 1950. At the age of 17, he went to work for the Bell of PA as a telephone installer and remained there for the next 36 years until his retirement in 1986. He then worked for HUP until his retirement there in 1992. He was drafted into the Army from 1953 to 1955.Ron loved spending time with his family, whether it was in the mountains of New Hampshire, at the beaches of North Wildwood or on a cruise. He had his own dark room and enjoyed photography, fixing things, shooting and donuts. Ron would always say he was "just along for the ride", but his ride of life was full and complete.Family: Ron was married to the first love of his life, Miriam Schiller, from 1957 until her death in 1996 and from their marriage leaves behind three beautiful daughters, Theresa Helker Nelson (Andy), Kathy Helker Pawlicki (Vince), and Alice Helker Carr (Bill); 7 grandchildren Dan, Katie and Michael Nelson (Bobbi), Dan and Emily Carr, and Joe and Mary Pawlicki; 3 great-grandchildren Ayden, Angelo and Kaylee.Ron married the second love of his life, Eleanor (Penny) Schlosman Smith in 1998. He leaves Penny behind as well as four step-children who he loved as his own Cindy Smith Grace (Pat), his personal nurse Tracy Smith Hickey (Jimmy), Stephanie Smith Johnson (Paul) and Larry Smith (Jennifer); as well as Penny's 15 grandchildren.He also leaves behind his brother Paul Helker (Gerri); many nieces, nephews and friends. Visitation Sunday 4 to 6 PM O'Leary Funeral Home, 640 E. Springfield Road, Springfield, PA and Monday, 8:30 AM in St. Cornelius Church, 160 Ridge Road, Chadds Ford, PA. Funeral Mass Monday 10 AM St. Cornelius Church. Burial Holy Cross Cemetery, Yeadon, PA In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be given to Neighborhood Hospice at Chester County Hospital www.nvnacc.com
Published in The Daily Times on October 7, 2012
