Theodore Fredrick Helbing

Command Sergeant Major Theodore “Ted” Fredrick Helbing, a devoted husband, beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, cherished brother and uncle, and proud U.S. Army veteran, passed away peacefully on June 25, 2025, just weeks before his 87th birthday. His life was defined by honor, service, and a deep, unwavering love for his family.

Ted was born on August 7, 1938, in Toledo, Ohio, to Iola M. Christian and Charles R. Helbing. One of six children, he grew up in a spirited home alongside his siblings: Chuck (deceased), Sue Dauer (deceased), Tom, Debbie French, and David. He remained a treasured brother and uncle to many, and was especially adored by his large extended family of nieces and nephews.

Ted proudly served 24 years in the United States Army, including three tours in Vietnam. Rising to the esteemed rank of Command Sergeant Major, his military career was marked by courage, leadership, loyalty, and quiet strength. While stationed in Korea in 1957, he met the love of his life, Kim. They were married for the first time on August 11, 1958, and again at the American Embassy on September 18, 1959—a marriage built on love, devotion, and resilience.

Together, Ted and Kim raised three children: 
           Alan David (January 25, 1960 – March 18, 2013),
           Terry Ann (July 12, 1964 – passed at four months and 13 days), and
           Denise Lynn (born August 30, 1968).

Ted was a devoted father and a proud grandfather to:
           Grace Louise, daughter of Alan,
            Austin Chandler and Brendan Michael, sons of Denise and her husband, Chandler Root.

He warmly welcomed Taylor Kitchen Root into the family when Austin married, and was overjoyed to become a great-grandfather to Salem Joy Root, born on September 17, 2024. Her presence brought immeasurable light and joy to his final year.

Since 2004, Ted and Kim lived with Denise and Chandler, surrounded by their children and sharing in the richness of everyday family life. These years were filled with love, laughter, and lasting memories across generations.

Ted will be remembered for his calm wisdom, steady presence, and the love he consistently and quietly offered to all who knew him. His legacy of strength, honor, and family lives on through each life he touched.

He is survived by his loving wife Kim; daughter Denise and son-in-law Chandler; grandchildren Grace, Austin (Taylor), and Brendan; great-granddaughter Salem Joy; siblings Tom, Debbie, and David; and a large, devoted extended family.

A private ceremony will be held to honor his life and military service. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Command Sergeant Major Theodore “Ted” Helbing’s memory be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.

A visitation will be held at The Peninsula Club following memorial service at 6:30pm.

A Funeral Service/ Memorial Service will be held August 7, 2025 at 5:00pm at Raymer-Kepner Funeral Home in Huntersville, NC.