WALTER HELBIG

WALTER HELBIG

February 09, 1948 - October 02, 2023

Obituary

Walter Helbig, 75, of Greenville, Wisconsin, passed away the evening of Monday, October 2, 2023. He was born on February 9, 1948, in Germany to Arthur and Elfriede Helbig. In 1957, the Helbig family emigrated to the United States, eventually settling in Chicago.

Walter's educational journey led him to graduate from Lane Technical High School, Chicago, Illinois, in 1967. Following his high school graduation, he enlisted in the US Air Force. His career in the military began as a Lineman. He worked up to Instructor Supervisor, eventually earning the rank of Senior Master Sergeant. After 26 years, Walter retired from active duty in 1993 from Columbus AFB, Columbus, Mississippi. He continued his service in the military as a civil servant employee of the Air Force, concluding this chapter of his career in 2007 at Sheppard AFB in Wichita Falls, Texas.

After his second retirement, Walter moved to the Fox Valley to be closer to his sister and her family. He made his new home in Greenville, Wisconsin where he would spend his free time tinkering with woodworking, metalworking, gardening, or exploring the world through travel.

Walter is survived by son, Justin (Ryan) Helbig and his family; his sister, Ingeborg Gramer; and his nieces: Karin (Rich) Gagner, and Linda Gibson; as well as his nephew, Ernie (Julie) Gramer. Walter's circle of family and friends also held a special place in his heart. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Elfriede Helbig; his brother-in-law, Kurt Gramer; and his loyal canine companion, Maggie.

A Celebration of Life in honor of Walter Helbig will be held on Saturday, December 2, 2023 at the South Greenville Grage, located at W6920 County Rd. BB, Appleton, Wisconsin. Friends and family are invited to witness Military Honors at 12:00 P.M. and join in paying their respects in a Celebration of Life to follow until 3:00 P.M. Walter's memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

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WALTER
PR
Peggy Relation
Other •
I have fond memories of Walt. My Mom and Dad told many stories of fun times with him while they were in the Air Force. He gave me my first motorcycle ride on a trip from Wichita Falls, TX to Meers OK. That was a fun time I will always remember. Walt was one of a kind and will be greatly missed by many. Rest now my dear friend.
J
Johnnie
Other •
We are praying for the family. Mr. Helbig was a great friend and supervisor. He is missed!  Johnnie Williams Jr. 
DR
Donnie Reno
Other •
I was stationed with Walt at Sheppard AFB Texas. Both of us then were Instructors 1975 - 1980. Super professional guy. Visited on line a few times but never got to come and visit, I regret that. Sorry for your loss of a Brother and us as a Military Brother. Rest in Peace. Salute 
SB
Steven Boyd
Other •
A good man has received his last order to report for duty: I feel fortunate to count myself among the hundreds of people touched by Walter Helbig’s life and career. He was a true friend to me and so many others. Walter lived a simple life of service to his country, his friends, and his family. He embodied the qualities of a leader, a master technician and teacher. He was stoic, infinitely patient, creative, and disciplined like few I’ve had the pleasure of knowing. Everyone I know just loved being around Walt. He left all of us better for having known him and I think we all agree that this last PCS came way too soon. Steven Boyd
RM
Royce (Cricket) Morgan
Other •
Walt and Kynn Morgan spent a lot of time together at work and between our house and his off duty. They talked for hours about almost any subject. They rebuilt his red VW station wagon engine 3 times together. Then one summer they decided to build a shed for our back yard to house the things to work on the yard and miscellaneous other objects and including the dog during winter. It was made of triangular pieces and a rectangular door. It took a long time and they concluded that triangles and rectangles didn't work well together. They had started out as instructors together and became supervisors of that same Lineman's course together. After Kynn retired they didn't spend as much time together, but later kept in touch on Facebook. We had hoped to see him again, but never were in the same place again. I'm sure Kynn welcomed him home.

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