Walter J. Helline Jr.

Walter Helline, Jr, age 85, passed away peacefully at Aultman Compassionate Care Center in Canton on March 18, 2024. He was the devoted husband of his wife, Sue Helline who he cared for until she passed away November 18, 2022.
He is survived by his sister, Ann Marie (Harold) Prunty, sister-in-laws, Mary Ann Helline and Betty McGill, son-in-law Tony Neenan, daughter Stephanie Helline, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Sonny, as many called him, due to his sunny personality, had a zest for life and a heart of gold. He was a hard worker having spent his high school years attending Central Catholic and working in his parents orchard.
After graduation he served in the Army. After leaving the service, he often worked multiple jobs in addition to his farm work. He drove school bus while also working full time at Nickles Bakery in Navarre, Ohio where he retired from in 2000.
Even with multiple jobs, he still made time for family actives such as square dancing at the Beach City Grange Hall, horseback and bike riding.
He excelled at horseback riding and entered his beloved horse, Nugget, in the annual 50 mile endurance ride. The first year he entered he placed second and then won the race the following year. He was a compassionate horseback rider who made sure his horse was well taken care of and physically fit.
He and Sue often took long bike rides together and with friends. For years Walt also rode with the Stark County Bike Club. He had lots of great cycling stories he liked to share. He loved introducing new riders to cycling and was always ready to share tips and encouragement with them. Even at 85 he wasn't ready for an e-bike, riding 50 miles a week last summer!
His others hobbies included chopping, splitting and stacking wood for his wood burner. The wood piles grew large every summer as he energetically cut enough wood to last all winter.
Always one to help the community and give back, he volunteered with the Fairless Food Cupboard at Holy Parish Church. He was a lifelong member and supporter of Holy Family Parish of St. Theresa's Church in Brewster.
Walt loved the peace he found outside while gardening and caring for the property he loved and while walking his beloved dog Dolly around the farm multiple times each day.
He will be deeply missed, but we know he will enjoy his heavenly reunion with Sue and the family and friends who have passed before him. We will never forget him.
The funeral mass will be held on Sat., April 6, 2024, 1 pm, at Holy Family Parish of St. Therese Catholic Church, 512 Wabash Ave S, Brewster, Ohio 44613. Music of reflection will be played before the service.
After the funeral mass a graveside service will be held immediately at Holy Family Parish of St. Clement Catholic Church, 216 Wooster St NE, Navarre, Ohio 44662. A reception will be held after the graveside service at the parish hall at St. Clements.
In lieu of flowers, you may make a donation to the Fairless Food Cupboard, PO Box 44, Navarre, Ohio 44662.