Frank Gibson Helt – Obituary
Frank Gibson Helt, 61, of Dunnstown, passed away suddenly on Friday, June 19, 2020 at UPMC Susquehanna Lock Haven.
He was born in Lock Haven on September 16, 1958, the son of the late Delbert D. “Junie” Helt, Jr. and Patricia Gibson Helt, who survives in W. Cape May, NJ.
Frank was a 1976 graduate of Lock Haven High School and attended Penn State University where he was a member of the Sigma Pi fraternity.
His career consisted of a lifetime of customer service, mostly in the automotive industry. He was also employed for several years for STEP, Inc. where he served as a Wilderness Challenge instructor and business liaison to support local child care facilities. In his earlier years, Frank was a professional downhill skier and certified ski instructor.
On August 27, 2000 on the Island Route in Lock Haven, Frank married the love his life, the former Sue Farley, who survives in Dunnstown.
From his childhood years to present, Frank had a love for spending time on the river and was proud to be the owner of the oldest boat still operating – his pontoon, which was initially launched in 1974. He also enjoyed tinkering with and riding his motorcycle and snowmobile and was a member of the local Dirty Dabbers. Many were unaware of Franks tremendous musical talent. He was an avid pianist, a gift he kept humbly private.
In addition to his wife and mother, Frank is survived by three children, Marlene Gladden of Maryland, Brice McKinley of Milesburg and Marie Harris of Lock Haven; a brother, Delbert D. “Tag” (Kathryn) Helt, III of South Carolina; a sister, Cynthia (Wesley) Kline of New Jersey; a niece, Zammany Kline of California; a nephew, Ian Helt of South Carolina; and five grandchildren: Cameron, Aurianna, Christiana, Caylyn and Wyatt.
A celebration of Frank’s life will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2020 at 11 A.M. at the Woodward Township Boat Ramp, 316 Old Coudersport Pike, Lock Haven, PA 17745 where words of remembrance will be said before Frank will board a boat for his final voyage on the river he cherished so much.
Friends and family will be received for a viewing on Friday, June 26, 2020 from 5 to 8 P.M. at the Donald G. Walker Funeral Home, Inc., 231 High Street, Flemington, PA 17745.
Private burial will take place at Highland Cemetery, Lock Haven.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made through the funeral home to the Uptown Music Collective of Williamsport to support music education for our youth.
Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.donaldwalkerfuneralhome.com
