Donald L. Helfrick, 85, of Chambersburg, PA, passed away, Monday May 27, 2024, while at home, lovingly surrounded by his family.
Born, June 24, 1938, in Waynesboro, PA, he was the son of the late Earl Russell and Vada Vangeline (Statler) Helfrick.
He married Pauline Beatrice (Shatzer) Helfrick on January 29, 1956, in Hagerstown, MD and later moved to their small farm near Saint Thomas, PA.
Donald owned and operated D & D Sawmill Parts & Service, Inc in Chambersburg, PA until retirement in 2000. Following his retirement, he continued part-time with his company until his grandson, Shawn Goshorn took ownership in 2015. During that transition, and years following, Donald continued to stay involved with the company, and took great joy and pride in watching the business grow under Shawn’s leadership.
He was a member of St Thomas Assembly of God Church, St Thomas, PA where he served in various leadership and teaching roles over the years.
Outside of being a businessman, Donald had a passion for music, and spending time with his family. Many of his young adult years were spent driving the tour bus, and singing with the Master’s Four Quartet. Post retirement, Donald spent most of his time traveling with his wife, attending his grandchildren’s sporting events, reading, doing puzzles, campfires and Sunday game nights with the family.
“Pap” is characterized by his children and grandchildren as; smart, wise, gentle, kind, loving, welcoming, encouraging, dedicated, forgiving, and ornery. Donald lived out his faith with integrity and loved well. He was a genuine example of what it meant to be a godly husband and father and had an impact on many who knew him.
In addition to his wife, Donald is survived by his four daughters. Sharon L. Eshleman and husband Ronald of St Thomas, PA, Roxane R. Hawkins of Berne, IN, Terrie J. Eyler and husband Jesse of Chambersburg, PA, and Jerri M. Martin and husband Dustin of Chambersburg, PA; 11 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren, and a sister, Nancy L Brechbill of Fort McCord, PA and a number of nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Donald was preceded in death by two grandchildren, Todd H. Martin and Quintin R. Martin
Services will be held as follows: Viewing will be Tuesday evening, June 4th from 6-8pm at Bowersox Funeral Home in Greencastle, PA. The Funeral Service will be held at St Thomas Assembly of God Church, St Thomas, PA, Wednesday, June 5th at 11am with graveside services to follow. There will be a time of visitation prior to the funeral service, beginning at 10am.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Camp Joy-El in St Thomas, PA and Sweet Grace Ministries, Chambersburg, PA.
