David Helmer
David Helmer, 90, died June 6, 2005, at St. Luke Living Center, Marion.
Born June 5, 1915, at Burstall, Saskatchewan, Canada, he was the son of David Sr. and Anna (Eberhardt) Helmer.
When he was 14, the family moved to rural Marion. He quit school and began working for area farmers and Seymour Packing Plant.
On Dec. 7, 1938, he married Eldena Schlotthauer at her parents' home near Hillsboro. The couple eventually moved to a farm east of Marion and he began his lifelong career as a farmer.
He worked part-time at Marion Co-Op.
Helmer was instrumental in starting Farmers Cooperative Association of Marion. He was the first president and resident agent of the new facility, which opened in October 1959.
He was a member of Marion Christian Church and served many years as a deacon.
He was preceded in death by his parents; six brothers, August, Albert, John, Harry, Gottfried, and Will; two daughters-in-law, Carol and Marsha; and granddaughter, Jenny.
Survivors include his wife, Eldena of Marion; three sons, Gary and Beverly Helmer of Hillsboro and Ladd and Luci Helmer and Darrel Helmer of Marion; three brothers, George Helmer of Newton; and Fred and Ezra Helmer, both of Marion; sister, Ann Boese of Marion; 10 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.
Funeral services were held Thursday at Marion Christian Church with Pastor Carl Helm officiating.
Music was provided by soloist Jeff Bina and pianist Dwayne Helmer.
Grandchildren served as casket bearers.
Burial was in Marion Cemetery.
