FRANCIS RODNEY HELINSKI

Francis “Ron” Rodney Helinski, 85, of Alpena passed away on April 19, 2024, at his home.

He was born in Alpena on May 30, 1938, to the late Anthony and Agnes (Nerkowski) Helinski and married Carol Leavesley on Feb. 12, 1959. She preceded him in death on July 26, 2023. Ron worked as a truck driver for many years, retiring from Great North Foods in 2005. He enjoyed traveling and trips to the casino.

Surviving are three children, Ronald Helinski, Tammy Garavaglia, Randy (Angela) Helinski; four grandchildren, Danielle (Jeff) Derry, Guy ‘Buddy’ (Randi) Garavaglia, Michael Garavaglia, Courtney Helinski; three great-grandchildren, Connor, Dillon, Ember; Goddaughter, Patricia Leavesley; several nieces and nephews.

Ron was preceded in death by a son-in-law Guy Garavaglia; five siblings, Gertrude Scarpelli, Eveyln Spicer, Dorothy Millard, Edith Helinski, and Stanley “Bud” Helinski.

A Celebration of Life will take place Saturday at his home on Hueber Street from 1 to 4 p.m. Cremation arrangements have been handled by the Bannan Funeral Home.

Memorials: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital