Derek Helmick

Derek Helmick, 21, of South Buffalo Township, passed away unexpectedly Monday, July 18, 2016, at his home. Derek's passing comes just four days after the passing of his mother, Linda Lee (Altmire) Helmick. Derek was born Sept. 10, 1994, in Lock Haven, Pa., a son of James Helmick Jr., of South Buffalo Township, and the late Linda (Altmire) Helmick. Derek was a 2013 graduate of Indiana Area High School and had taken college courses at West Virginia University. Derek had played hockey, football, lacrosse and little league baseball. He was a big collector of sporting arms and loved watching all the Pittsburgh sports teams. He had worked for different gas and oil companies and was recently working with a local contractor. Derek enjoyed all the family trips and activities they would take throughout the years. Derek was a loving son, caring brother and a loyal friend. He had a unique bond with his father whom he admired greatly and especially treasured with his heart and soul his mother, Linda. Derek was a private and quiet young man who was steadfast and loyal in his protection of his friends and family. Derek is survived by his father, James Helmick Jr., with whom he lived; his sister, Rae Lyn Helmick, of East Vandergrift; his nephew, Isaiah; and his paternal grandparents, James and Susan Helmick Sr., of Lafayette, La. Derek is also survived by many loving aunts, uncles and cousins. In addition to his mother Linda, he was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, William and Frances Altmire; and his paternal great-grandparents, Harold "Squire" and Anna Helmick and Mable McNutt.
Family and friends will be received from 1 to 3 and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, July 21, in the REDMOND FUNERAL HOME INC., 524 High St., Freeport, PA 16229. A parting prayer service will be held at 9 a.m. Friday, July 22, in the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 a.m. at St. Mary, Mother of God Church in Freeport with Father Ronald Maquinana officiating. Burial services will be held in private for the family.
We pray that Derek is now at peace in the comfort of his mother's arms and will be reunited with her in the presence of the Lord forever. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Restore Freeport Park Inc. c/o Redmond Funeral Home Inc., 524 High St., Freeport, PA 16229. To send a condolence visit, www.redmondfuneralhomeinc.com.