Alexander Paul “OPA” Helmel

Greece: Born September 11, 1925, went to his heavenly home on June 26, 2015, at age 89. He is predeceased by his son, Alexander, and his wife, Sophie, of 56 years.

He was a devoted father to Lisa (Todd) Thomas, Rosalee (Claude) Fillion, and daughter-in-law, Pamela (William) Finn. He took great pride in his grandchildren, Lydia, Gabriela, Samuel, and Noah Thomas, Johan Helmel, Philip (Melody), Anna, Naomi, Grace, Tabitha, Peter, Mary, Julia, Paul, Luke, Ruth, and Daniel Fillion, and William Finn. He is also survived by his sister, Ira Kerpinsky in Latvia and brother, Leo in the Ukraine, as well as many friends and extended family abroad.

Alexander’s life was characterized by diligence, faith, and generosity. He persevered through great difficulties in the Second World War, growing in his faith in God. Alexander earned his M.S. in mechanical engineering, emigrated from Germany in 1956, and was Vice President at both Morley Machinery and Alliance Tool and Die. He later founded Kalex Machinery. Alexander took great interest in history and culture, learning four languages and participating in the Federation of German-American Societies and the Verein Der Donau-Deutschen.

Many thanks to those at Unity Hospital who provided loving care in his last days.

Calling hours will be held at New Comer Funeral Home, 2636 Ridgeway Ave., Rochester, NY 14626 on Thursday, July 2 from 4-8 PM. A memorial service will be held on Friday, July 3 at Henrietta Assembly of God, 1390 Pinnacle Rd., Henrietta, NY 14467 at 11:00 AM, with private interment to follow.

Gifts can be made in his memory to:

The German Radio Program
P.O. Box 12921
Rochester, NY 14612-0921