Ron was born on May 27, 1936, in Wahoo, NE, to the late Wendell and Myrtle Helsing. He was the younger brother to Merlin and older brother to Joyce, who both preceded him in death. He grew up on a farm, went to country school, and was involved in Swedeburg Covenant Church. After high school he attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln as a Regent’s Scholar in the College of Agriculture. He met the love of his life one summer when he and Nona served as camp counselors at Covenant Cedars. They were married on June 26, 1959. They began their married life in Fremont, NE, where God blessed their marriage, and they welcomed son Steve and daughter Patty. They moved to Lincoln in 1965 where he began his 35-year career at the University of Nebraska’s Foundation Seed Division.
Ron loved Jesus, Nona, his family, the church, and farming. He walked with integrity, guided by his faith in his Savior and Redeemer Jesus. He treasured his marriage to Nona and being Dad to Steve and Patty. He loved his grandchildren and was known as “the grandpa who knew everything and could fix anything!” He loved serving in the church, leading life groups, and being on the tractor. Special thanks to the staff at Aviva Woodlands for loving and caring for “Farmer Ron” these past nine months.
Ron was preceded in death by his loving wife, Nona, and is survived by his children: Steve Helsing (Karen) of Woodstock, GA, and Patty Eaton (Brad) of Lincoln, NE. He is also survived by seven grandchildren: Ryan, Connor (Meghan-fiancé), Daniel (Casey), Kyle and Lauren Helsing, and Matthew and Bethany Eaton.
Visitation will be on June 12, from 5:00-7:00pm at Roper and Sons South Chapel at 3950 Hohensee Dr. Funeral Services will be held on June 13 at 10:30am at First Free Church, 3280 S. 84th Street.
Memorials can be directed to First Free Church or People’s City Mission. Ron will be buried in Oakland, NE.