Eugene A. Helfrich, 85, of Christopher died at Sunday, March 8, 2009, at the Herrin Hospital.

A funeral service is scheduled for 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 11, at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Christopher, officated by Father Steven Poole. Burial will be at St. Andrew’s Catholic Cemetery in Christopher. Visitation will be after 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Gilbert Funeral Home in Christopher.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Andrew’s Catholic Church and will be accepted at the funeral home.

Gene was born March 19, 1923, the son of Arthur Helfrich and Aileen Vancil. His stepfather was Felix Nowaske.

He was married to Charlene (Silkwood) Helfrich on June 5, 1948, and she survives in Christopher.

Gene was an avid Cardinal and Saluki fan, a member of the Christopher Lions Club and Knights of Columbus, and former member of the Parrish council and library board. He was a former school board president.

Gene was an inspiration to many. He loved life to the fullest. He loved his family and was always willing to do what he could for them. He loved reminiscing about his days of coaching and teaching. He truly was a godsend to each and every one of those who knew him and whose lives he touched.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by their children, Becky and Bruce McMurray of Valier, and Lisa and Eddie Edwards of Pittsburg; grandchildren, Tim and Jordan McMurray of Valier, Lerin and Tommy Richard of Johnston City, Cort Edwards of Pittsburg and Max Edwards of Pittsburg; great-grandchildren, Hayden McMurray, Liam McMurray and one future grandson, Cash.