Paul N. Helmkamp

Paul N. Helmkamp, 91, of Fort Wayne, passed away peacefully on September 21, 2026. Born on April 17, 1935, in Cloverdale, Ohio, to the late Bernard and Hilda (Kolhoff) Helmkamp, Paul lived a life centered around his faith, his family, hard work, and service to others. He leaves behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and a willingness to lend a helping hand.

Paul was a devoted member of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, where his faith was central to his life. He served in several capacities, including as treasurer of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, reflecting his lifelong commitment to serving others.

A graduate of Avilla High School, Class of 1953, Paul began a 30-year career as an electrician with International Harvester. During his time there, he served as past president of the IBEW local. After retiring from International Harvester in 1984, Paul continued working and serving his community. He co-owned the Wabash Valley Chrysler Dealership from 1985 to 1989 and later worked for LA Electric and Engineered Systems.

One of Paul's favorite places to work was Do It Best Hardware in Greenville, Michigan, where he enjoyed helping customers with their projects and sharing his knowledge and experience.

On September 14, 1957, Paul married Karen Brumbaugh in Avilla. Together, they built a loving home and raised two daughters, Paula and Pamela. Paul was a hands-on father who believed in teaching his daughters how to do things themselves-and, as he would say, how to do things "the right way." A true jack of all trades, he was never afraid to tackle a project and was always willing to share what he knew.

In his free time, Paul enjoyed woodworking and solving puzzles. He found satisfaction in working with his hands, figuring things out, and helping others along the way. He also enjoyed traveling around the U.S. as well as Canada, England, and France.

Paul is survived by his devoted wife of 69 years, Karen; his daughters, Paula (John) Belcher of Wolcottville, and Pamela (Greg) Korba from Indianapolis; his sister, Joann Alfeld; a sister-in-law, Ann Helmkamp; and his grandsons, Brandon (Bethany) Belcher of Fleet, England and Corbin (Tammy) Belcher from Roseville, California; five great-grandchildren, Sammy, Coen, Evie, William, and Emma.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Donald, Robert, Gerald, Richard, and James; his sister, Mary Ley; and a great-granddaughter, Elizabeth.

The family invites friends and loved ones to celebrate Paul's life and honor his memory. Public visitation will be held Tuesday, September 29, 2026, from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Sheets & Childs Funeral Home, Huntertown Chapel, with a Rosary beginning at 7:00 p.m.A final visitation will be held Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at 9:30 a.m., followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Heartland Hospice or the St. Vincent de Paul Society.

May Paul rest in eternal peace.