Charles Ronald Helba was born to Charles and Wilma Helba on October 12, 1938 in Weirton, West Virginia. He was the second of six children.

Charles earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering from West Virginia University and moved to Baltimore, Maryland to work for Martin Marietta. While in Baltimore, he met Ann Thomas on a blind date. They were married on November 21, 1964 in Weirton before moving to Huntsville, Alabama to begin their new life together.

In Huntsville, Charles worked for Chrysler Corporation on the Apollo / Saturn program. His career with Chrysler spanned over 30 years, culminating as a Quality Control supervisor at Chrysler’s Pentastar Electronics Division, testing electronics for both military and civilian products.

Charles was an active member of Holy Cross – Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church in Huntsville. His domain was the candle donation table at the church’s entrance, where he would greet all members and visitors each Sunday. He was known for keeping meticulous attendance records. Over the years, he also served in several other capacities, including Parish Council Treasurer.

At home, Charles was a thoughtful husband, father, and grandfather. He always freely shared his wisdom and advice. He was especially adored by his great-granddaughter, Sophia.

After retirement, Charles led a quiet life with his crossword and Sudoku puzzles and Church activities. He maintained a keen interest in following the space program and current events. He also enjoyed driving around town to “supervise” construction projects.

Charles Helba fell asleep in the Lord early on the morning of February 23rd 2017 peacefully at home. He was preceded in death by his wife, Ann Helba, and his sister, Joan Mullavey.

Charles is survived by his two sons, Michael and David, his daughter-in-law, Rochelle, two grandsons, Nicholas and Kevin, one great-granddaughter, Sophia, and four siblings, Katherine Adams, Gary Helba, and John Helba from West Virginia and Ann Smith from Ohio.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Spry Funeral Home of Huntsville, where the family will receive friends Sunday February 26th from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. The funeral will be held at Holy Cross – Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church on Monday February 27th at 10:00 a.m. with Father Kevin Millsaps officiating. The family requests donations to Holy Cross – Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church in lieu of flowers. May his memory be eternal!

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