Dr. DeVon W. Helbling

I had met Dr. Helbling when he visited his brother's family at our church in Hugoton, KS, and I saw him again at a freshman reception when I first arrived at Anderson College. It was so nice to see a familiar and friendly face! He became my piano instructor, and I remember enjoying his quick sense of humor and knowledge of music. (He said he could tell that I had had the same piano teacher as his nieces.) I've always admired the musicianship of so many members of the Helbling family, and my...

Uncle DeVon was one of the kindest people ever, and a great musician. He was a great listener and I loved hearing him tell stories about his life and the people he met along the way. He was always a big encouragement to me as a musician and I'll never forget the Harvard Music Dictionary he gave to me when I went to a workshop in Anderson one summer while I was in high school. I've also used his textbook, "Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs" in my Basic Musicianship class for the last 13 years...

I first met DeVon approximately 60 years ago. He and part of his family came to the church where my father was pastor to hold a revival meeting. I remember very vividly the first night they were at my parents home and DeVon sat down to play our piano. We were astonished at how well he could play the piano. I remember his mother asking him to play 'Just Because' and it wasn't the one she wanted to hear and she was so embarassed. In those days revival meetings lasted two weeks so we got to see...

Uncle DeVon-
I will really miss those times when I would be visiting and come to eat a meal and spend time with you, (running errands, etc.) and walk down the hall to your door and when you would open it you would have a big smile and make me feel like you genuinely were glad to see me. I am so thankful that I had that opportunity several times in the last few years. You will be missed, but I am so thankful that you are in peace and comfort now. I love you, Delores

Dear Helbling family, I did not know DeVon ... my loss! I know of him through my family research with Marcie. I have learned that you are a loving family and are blessed with wonderful memories that will comfort you until you meet again. Gentle regards!

CeVon was not only a very special cousin, but a valued friend. We shall miss him, but be thankful that were had so long on earth with him.

Dear Paul and Delores,

I first remember meeting your Dad when Lee and I lived in Indianapolis in the early 60's. He came to visit us. I next met him during the cousins reunion in Fort Myers at Howard Helbling's house. At that time he conducted a voice seminar at Howard's Church. Being a choir singer, I was especially interested. He also passed out a booklet on singing that I review frequently. I wish that I had known him earlier because I love music and singing. Lee had some...

What a precious treasure I have had in such a sweet and loving brother. Never any criticism, but always seeing the best in me. I can never remember a time he showed any anger. He liked to remind me that he cared for me when I was a baby and our mother had TB. He also named me. I cherish the many times we drove to Portland to attend the Oregon Sympathy together. How he loved that, even though some of the time he dozed off. I miss you so much, dear brother, but wouldn't bring you back if I...