Eldo “Junior” Helling, 80, of Leslie, passed away Wednesday, April 10, 2019, at his home.
He was born in Port Hudson, Sept. 11, 1938, a son of the late Eldo H. Sr. and Elsie M. (Mann) Helling.
He was the husband of Deanna (Kester) Helling. They were united in marriage April 17, 1982, in Union.
Eldo is survived by wife Deanna; four daughters, Peggy King and husband Jon of Leslie; Idie Rohlfing and husband Rodney of Gerald; Judy Scheer and husband Brad of Washington and Susan Rector and husband Darel of Bourbon; son Jeff Helling of Springfield; and Darrell Freiberger of Beaufort, who was like a son to him; by 11 grandchildren, seven great grandchildren and many other family members and close friends.
He is preceded in death by parents, Eldo and Elsie; and son, Roy V. Helling.
When Eldo was younger he worked on the farm with his dad. He bailed and hauled a lot of hay. He even delivered hay once to Elvis Presley, which by the way he was very proud of. He eventually became a car dealer and met his wife of 39 years. They built several successful car dealerships and eventually built a very successful auction business as well. They sold cars and farm machinery. The consignment and auction business was very successful for over 30 years. Thanks to the best of friends, customers and his auction crew, Jeff Miller, Darrell Freiberger, Paul Stockamp and Dennis Druesch, Dale, Garver, his daughter Peggy King and son-in-law Jon, and the Hiatt’s and Haney’s. He will be missed by many friends and family.
He enjoyed going to auctions, and working his own auctions. He was a great story teller and enjoyed embellishing the truth. He loved riding his gator and going to feed his fish, working on the farm, collecting John Deere Tractors and memorabilia, and going to family gatherings and bbq’s.
Visitation and funeral services were held Monday, April 15, at Toedtmann & Grosse Funeral Home, New Haven, with Rev. William Zastrow officiating. Burial was at Ebenezer Lutheran Cemetery, Port Hudson. Memorial contributions may be given to family choice.
Arrangements entrusted to Toedtmann & Grosse Funeral Home, New Haven.
