Henry Helmke, 81, passed away at home in Corinth, Texas, surrounded by family, on Friday, June 20, 2025.
Born in Pratt to John and Margaret Helmke, Henry grew up on his family farm with his brothers, William and Walter.
After graduating from Kansas State University in 1965, he began his career in agriculture.
In 1974, Henry was asked to “keep an eye” on SKADAF in Liberal. That favor turned into 38 years of guiding people to sobriety, making him a quiet hero to many.
Henry gave his time to many local causes, dedicating more than 30 years to the American Red Cross, serving on its board and volunteering on disaster deployments. He was a member of Grace Lutheran Church in Liberal, and later, St. Paul Lutheran Church in Denton, Texas.
An avid outdoorsman, Henry was happiest with a fly rod in hand or a rifle on his shoulder.
He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Sherry Helmke; brother, William Helmke; children: James and Laura (Helmke) Gangler, Daniel and Keri (Applebee) Oviawe, and Teri Applebee; grandchildren: James Henry Gangler, Olivia Gangler, Jatania Burrus, Thomas Burrus, and Nathan Burrus.
• Memorial services will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025 at Grace Lutheran Church in Liberal.
He will be laid to rest in Stamps, Ark., near the woods where he spent many joyful hunting seasons.
The family invites you to honor Henry’s memory with an act of quiet benevolence, helping someone in need or supporting a cause close to your heart.
Paid obituary
