Waneta E. (Lunz) Helmlinger

Waneta E. Helmlinger, 96, of Wapakoneta, passed away and went home to be with the Lord at 5:40 PM, Thursday, November 4, 2021 at Otterbein Cridersville.  She was born on November 5, 1924 in Pusheta Township, Auglaize County, to Albert and Goldie (Ruck) Lunz who have preceded her in death.  On June 29, 1944, she married Wilbur L. Helmlinger, who passed away on June 20, 1986.

Survivors include two children, Ken (Karen) Helmlinger of Lewis Center, Linda (Jerry) Shipp, of Wapakoneta; son-in-law, Marvin Elsass, of Wapakoneta; seven grandchildren, Emily D. Elsass, Adam T. Elsass, Jess D. (Tricia) Helmlinger, Jacob E. Helmlinger, Andrew D. (Kyria) Helmlinger, Kurtis L. (Carly) Shipp, Tyler L. Shipp; eight great-grandchildren, Noah E. Elsass, Luke J. Helmlinger, Ella L. Helmlinger, Jack K. Helmlinger, Arie A. Helmlinger, Cullen M. Helmlinger, Layton L. Shipp, Owen M. Shipp; sister, Lura Mae (Weston) Olds, of Wapakoneta. 

Waneta was preceded in death by a daughter, Judy Elsass; and a great-grandson, Jake T. Helmlinger; and a sister, Janice (Ralph) Regula. 

Waneta was a 1943 graduate of Blume High School and helped organize all their class reunions.  She was a lifetime member of St. Mark Lutheran Church on Geyer Drive, where she loved to fix the altar flowers.  A very active and social person, Waneta was good at fostering and maintaining friendships through the years.  A homemaker, but so much more, Waneta milked cows for many years and helped in many ways on the farm, driving equipment into her eighties.  Waneta will be remembered for her artistic abilities, which she used in many craft projects, large and small, and as an accomplished seamstress.  She volunteered as a 4-H leader and worked as a judge for elections for many years.  

Services will begin at 10:30 a.m. Monday, November 8, 2021 St. Mark Lutheran Church, 10424 Geyer Drive, Clay Township, Wapakoneta.  Rev. Michael Althauser will officiate.  Friends may call from 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. Sunday at Schlosser Funeral Home & Cremation Services and one hour prior to the services at the church Monday.  Internment will follow in the church cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Mark Lutheran Church or St. Johns Volunteer Fire & Rescue Department.