Michael Anthony Helminiak

Michael Anthony Helminiak, 69 years old, passed away in the early morning of November 3, 2021. He had a long battle with COPD, but passed away peacefully thanks to the tireless work of Hospice of Northwest Ohio. Mike was born and later married in Toledo, Ohio. He passed at a facility in Swanton, with a member of his family holding his hand. Mike was proceeded in death by his father and his mother Zigmond and Virgina Helminiak. Surviving loved ones: Wife, Kathryn Helminiak; Daughter, Elizabeth Martinez; Daughter, Danielle (Lindsey) McIntyre; six Grandchildren; Sisters: Shirley Bourquin, Debra Ulch, Sandy Merritt, Janet Helminiak. Mike went to Libby High School in Toledo, Ohio until the Vietnam war broke out; he joined the Army and finished with a GED there. He spent his military career in Germany, working on tanks and other military equipment. This was one of the greatest adventures of his life and talked very highly of the people he served with, and the things he saw. Mike worked, after the military, in factories; landing eventually, at Great Lakes Corrugated (for 30+ years) and then Propak (where he retired) as a package finisher. He worked very hard for many, many years and took pride in it allowing him to take care of his family, home and dogs. He loved and trained his animals, enjoyed camping, watching sports, movies, working on his house. He is known for his service to others: fixing people’s vehicles, helping them shop for new ones, working on their homes, working on small electronics, and teaching general maintenance to anyone that would listen. He was often quiet, sometimes bruting, but always had the best of intentions; his family and loved ones will miss him dearly. A celebration of life will be held at the Swanton American Legion Nov. 21. Please ask Kathy Helminiak for more details regarding the services as the plans unfold.