John Joseph "Duke" Heleringer

Heleringer, John "Duke" Joseph,,

83, passed away Monday June 13, 2016 in Louisville, KY surrounded by his family. Born September 3, 1932, in New Albany , IN , he was the son of the late Amedee M. and Margaret C. Holtz Heleringer. He was preceded in death by Sue Lanham Heleringer and brothers Jim, Bob and Tom Heleringer.

John had a great joy for life and a loving heart for all around him, especially his family. John's favorite moments were when he was surrounded by family and friends. He was the consummate host and was always focused on making sure everyone around him was happy. Duke was incredibly proud of his grandchildren and devoted his retirement to attending as many of their sporting events and activities as possible. He loved to travel and was a fan of Broadway Theatre. Duke was a huge supporter of the arts community in Louisville, serving on the board of the Broadway Series and as President of the Music Theatre of Louisville. He was a member of Big Spring Country Club for many years where he served on numerous boards but was best known as swim chairman. At Sacred Heart Model School, where his daughters attended, Duke was an active parent and beloved coach of his daughter's sport teams.

John attended Christ the King Grade School. He graduated from Flaget High School and the University of Louisville where he was a member of Phi Kappa Tau fraternity. He served as a Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force as the social Director of the officers Club.

John, with his brothers and father, started Heleringer's furniture which was a prominent Louisville retail business that lasted for over 50 years. John was successful businessman and a distinguished leader in the furniture industry. He was president of the Mid West Home Furniture Association and john was the winner of numerous retailer of the year awards. John was also the V.P of the National Home Furnishing Association and served on the Board for many years.

He is survived by his loving wife of 21 years. Linda Heleringer, daughter Jackie (Greg) Evans of Louisville, daughter Leigh Cassis Marshall of Louisville, Step son Damon (Heather) Vincent of Brentwood , TN; his constant sidekick and sister in law Patricia Lanham; eight grandchildren, Jack ,Harrison, Tucker and Susu Evans, Claire and John Cassis , Mathew Marshall and Sophia Vincent along with numerous nieces and nephews who all adored Uncle Duke.

Visitation Services will be held at Ratterman's Funeral Home, 3711 Lexington Road, "In St. Matthews" on Thursday June 23rd from 12-8 p.m. Funeral services will be held at St. Aloysius Catholic Church, 212 Mt. Mercy Drive in Pewee Valley, KY on Friday June 24th at 11 a.m.. with interment at Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Fund for the Arts or charity of your choice.