Kenneth Helsel

Kenneth Andrew Helsel, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home in Pinconning, Michigan, on April 17, 2025, at the age of 74.

Ken was born on March 25, 1951, in Defiance, Ohio, to Ruth Jeanneane (Dangler) and Carl Andrew Helsel. He grew up in Hicksville, Ohio and graduated from Hicksville High School with the Class of 1969. Throughout his life, Ken held tightly to his roots and carried with him a deep appreciation for wildlife, adventure, friends, and family.

In 1972, Kenny married the love of his life, Nancy (Clark) Helsel. They began their family in Hicksville, Ohio, before moving to Aurora, Colorado. They lived for decades on Adams Lake in Wolcottville, Indiana, where they created lasting memories of pontoon rides, bonfires, and fish fries with family and friends. In 2018, Ken and Nancy retired to the shores of Lake Huron in Pinconning, Michigan, where Ken continued to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.

Although he worked in manufacturing and construction, Kenny had an unquenchable love for fishing, hunting, and boating-activities that weren't just hobbies, but an integral part of who he was. A friend to many beloved animals throughout his life, Ken also found comfort in the companionship of four-legged boating and birdwatching buddies. Whether on a quiet morning cast, a boat ride with the family, or a crisp fall hunt, he found joy and peace in the natural world.

He will be greatly missed by his loving wife, Nancy Helsel of Pinconning, MI; his daughter, Shanna Petersen of Gig Harbor, WA; his son, Chad (Breeann) Helsel of Sanford, MI; and his son, Jeremy Ryan (Sadie) Helsel of Hillsborough, NC. Ken was a proud grandfather to six cherished grandchildren: Helen Petersen, Isabell Petersen, Ellie Helsel, Wyatt Helsel, Harper Helsel, and Emmett Helsel. He also leaves behind his sister, Suzanne (Joe) Mock; sister-in-law, Mary Beth Helsel; uncles Klee (Carolyn) Dangler, David (Cindy) Dangler, and Garrett Dangler; and several beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. He will be fondly remembered by extended family and countless friends and neighbors who were touched by his warmth and humor.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents, Jeanneane and Carl Helsel, his brother Bert E. Helsel, and his brother Carl A. Helsel, Jr in infancy.

A memorial gathering will be held on Saturday, May 3rd, at 2:00 PM at the Warming Center in Pokagon State Park, where a remembrance service will be followed by food and fellowship. All who knew and loved Kenneth are invited to join in celebrating his cherished life.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to spend a quiet moment outdoors in Ken's memory-drop a line in the water, take a walk in the woods, or take a moment to enjoy watching the birds, the way he loved to.