Derrill Paul Helmer

Beloved son of Donna Jean & Sherrill Edward Helmer, Derrill was born July 7, 1962, in Dayton, OH. His sweet, fun spirit was evident right from the start as he was the younger brother of Lonnie, Trudy & Louie Rieker and sister Sherrie Jean Helmer. Soon, Derrill himself became a big brother to Stace Eric Helmer. The family bonds grew strong as nephew Joe Helmer joined in the fun of growing up with lots of badminton, kickball and drive-in movies. As time went by Derrill enjoyed football, bonfires, fishing and boating. He made a career working as a ready-mix concrete professional. He met and became devoted to Debbie Rogge. They were married and to their delight became parents on Oct.29, 1993 when son Paul Daniel Helmer made their little family complete. Perhaps drawn by the rural calm of lake waters, they later moved to Grand Lake St. Mary's where Paul grew up with many friends who shared his love of sports & fishing.

Many sorrows came to Derrill as closest family members died FAR too soon. He kept his spirits up, miraculously it seemed to family, as he faced one serious health obstacle after the next. Then, on July 11, 2023, Derrill passed from this life, just a few days after smiling & giving joy to those around him as he enjoyed a big chocolate cake (and Frosty!) with family on his 61st birthday. Left to cherish his memory are his devoted brother & sister-in-law, Louie & Lori Rieker; sister Trudy Cordero (D.J.); nieces and nephews Joe, Nic, Diana, Gina, Shea, Angela, Amanda, Chad, Jordan, Josh, Jeff, Chase, among others, plus cousins, old buddies & new friends Derrill met on his inspirational quest for better health.

Celebration of life: July 31, 2023, 1-2 p.m., Newcomer North Chapel, 4104 Needmore Rd, Dayton, OH. Private interment: Forest Hills Memorial Gardens, Tipp City, OH where Derrill will rest in peace with Debbie & their son Paul.