He is survived by his wife of 61 years, (Janet) Muriel Stucke, his son David (Susan), his daughter Krista (Barry Gooder) and his four beloved grandchildren, Megan, Kyle, Molly and Charlie. Helmut was born on March 2, 1938 in Hanover, Germany.
He and his parents and three brothers, Heinz, Bernd and Gerd immigrated to Canada when he was a boy of fourteen. London has been his home ever since. His greatest joys were spending time with friends and family. Dancing at the German and Scottish clubs was a favourite activity for Helmut and Muriel. After retiring from General Motors, Helmut enjoyed travelling with Muriel on regular trips to Victoria B.C, Scotland and Germany.
Helmut spent many mornings meeting up with friends at the Boys and Girls Club for early swims and exchanging stories with his coffee friends at the local Tim Horton’s. He was most at home in his kitchen and outside at his barbeque. Helmut welcomed his closest friends and family into his home at any time. He especially enjoyed preparing and serving dinners for his loved ones where delicious food was plentiful and laughter and stories abounded.
He will be remembered for his involvement in his grandchildren’s lives: teaching Megan and Kyle how to swim in his neighbour’s backyard pool, travelling to Bradford to watch Kyle swim and to spend time with them, cheering Molly as she played soccer at the BMO Centre, and freezing in the cold at Argyle Arena to root Charlie on in hockey. Helmut did not miss a Christmas concert, school play or graduation. His grandchildren will always cherish his interest, love and involvement in their lives.
Special thanks to the staff at Richmond Woods for their support and friendship for Helmut during his time as a resident and to the nursing staff and doctors at University Hospital for their care and kindness to Helmut over the weeks when he was their patient.
Helmut wished to be cremated, followed by a small immediate family member gathering to honour his life. In lieu of flowers, Helmut would have appreciated a donation made to the Boys and Girls Club on Horton Street in London. Messages and condolences may be left at www.forestcitycremation.com