Derrick Helmbacher

Derrick Helmbacher, 51, of Shumway, IL, passed away on Tuesday, November 4, 2025 at his home.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 15, 2025 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Shumway. Burial will be in Trinity Lutheran Cemetery in Shumway. Visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 am on Saturday prior to the service at the church. Services are in the care of Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham.

Memorials may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church, Shumway or the Shumway Kluthe Center. Online condolences may be shared at www.johnsonandsonsfh.com.

Derrick was born on November 22, 1973 in Effingham, IL, the son of Ray Dean and Mildred Faye (McKimmy) Helmbacher. Derrick graduated from Beecher City High School in 1992. His love of history led him to earn a master's degree in history from Eastern Illinois University. Derrick served as Shumway Village Clerk for over 30 years. He was currently working as licensed water operator with the Effingham Water Department.

Derrick was a lifelong member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Shumway, serving on the church council at the age of 19, the youngest member to ever do so. He later served as council president for two terms. Derrick had a deep love of reading and enjoyed spending time with friends.

Derrick is survived by his sister, Joanna Helmbacher; nephew, Lucas (Jessi) Moulder; uncle, Neal (Carol) Helmbacher; uncle, Merle Mechling; and many cousins.

Derrick was preceded in death by his parents, brother, William; and many aunts and uncles.