Bernard E. Helmick

Bernard “Gene” Helmick, 78, of Niles, passed away at 3:35PM Sunday June 2, 2019 at Mercy Health St. Joseph’s Warren Hospital.

He was born November 4, 1940 in Cowen, West Virginia the son of Edward and Virginia Long Helmick.

Gene was a 1960 graduate of Niles McKinley High School and played football under coach Tony Mason whom he greatly admired. He then went on to attend Arizona State University and played on a football scholarship for one year.

He returned back to the valley where he was employed at General Motors Lordstown as a waste water treatment tech for 41 years retiring December of 2006. Gene was a member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish in Niles where he was a pizza sale and festival volunteer. He was also a member of the Niles Jaycees, Niles Rebounders and Frontliners.

He enjoyed yard work, home repairs, attending his grandchildren’s sporting events, and an avid Ohio State University and Duke Blue Devil Basketball fan.

Memories of Gene will be carried on by his wife Jennie Nardo Helmick whom he married October 26, 1963, his son Kevin T. Helmick and his wife Regina of Niles, his daughter Gina Price of Girard, his brother David L. Helmick and his wife Joan of Cleveland, and his three grandchildren, Makenzie and Matthew Price, and Kasen Helmick.

He is preceded in death by his parents, a son Mark E.. Helmick, and a brother Allen Helmick.

Friends may call Thursday from 9AM to 10:30AM at The Joseph Rossi and Sons Funeral Home in Niles.

Memorial Mass will be held 11AM Thursday at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church in Niles preceded by a 10:30AM prayer service at the funeral home.

Burial will be in Pineview Cemetery.

Material contributions can be made to The American Diabetes Association, 2451 Crystal Drive, Suite 900, Arlington, Virginia, 22202 or to The Project 20/20 Campaign at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church 381 Robbins Ave, Niles, Ohio 44446.

Arrangements are being held by The Joseph Rossi and Sons Funeral Home in Niles.

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