David E. Hellner

1933 - 2023

Hellner, David E.
12/13/1933 - 8/2/2023
Ann Arbor, Michigan
David Edward Hellner, age 89, of Ann Arbor, Michigan, passed away on Wednesday, August 2, 2023, surrounded by his family. He was born on December 13, 1933 to parents John and Wilhelmina (Maier) Hellner. He was preceded in death by his wife, Annemarie, whom he deeply loved; his parents; his sisters, Catherine O'Neil, Anne Chamberlain, Elvera Kennard, Caroline Miller, and Rosemary Donner; and his brothers, William Hellner, Leo Hellner, and George Hellner.
David will be missed by his children, Dawn (Eric) Reed, Jackie (Terry) Grabinski, Tony (Mark) Hellner, and Nancy Francis; and his grandchildren, Rachel, Nicholas, TJ (Jenna), Ashley, Alyssa, Lindsay, and Nathan, as well as Justin Francis, many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and close friends.
David was raised on the family farm alongside his eight siblings, he was later drafted into the US Army where he served honorably as a tank driver in the Tank Company 22nd Infantry Regiment. Upon returning home from the service, he married Annemarie Potysch, the love of his life. Their great love welcomed four children into their lives, and when it came to family, he was a proud provider.
David was a member of a Carpenter's Union, where he was a master carpenter and worked hard on various jobs around Ann Arbor for over 30 years. Another great passion of his was working the land of his family farm which he did his entire life. He would work in town as a carpenter then come home to farm at night. He was dedicated and hardworking. Even at the age of 89 you would often find him on the backhoe or fixing farm equipment.
Not only was David deeply committed to his family, he was also a wonderful and dedicated mentor and friend. He looked forward to visits with fellow farmers and neighbors, he was often found driving around the neighborhood to see friends. "Wild Dave" was described as a passionate, loyal, and an honest friend to anyone he met and always willing to help. David liked to spend his spare time outdoors and was proud to teach his grandchildren to hunt on the farm. He especially looked forward to and enjoyed the fall deer season with family and friends.
Visitation will take place on Monday, August 7, 2023 at Nie Family Funeral Home, 3767 W. Liberty Road, Ann Arbor, MI from 3:00 pm until 8:00 pm. Friends and family are welcome to participate in a Sharing of Memories at 7:00 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, August 8, 2023 at 11:00 am at St. Joseph Country Catholic Church, 6805 Mast Road, Dexter, MI with a visitation beginning at 10:00am. Immediately following the service, David will be laid to rest beside his beloved Annemarie at Old St. Patrick's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to: St. Joseph Country Catholic Church, 6805 Mast Road, Dexter, MI 48130 or folks can plant a tree in memory of Dave.