Marvin L Helmrichs

Marvin L. Helmrichs, 94, of Manchester, Iowa, passed away surrounded by his family on Saturday, December 1, 2018, at Regional Medical Center in Manchester. He was born on April 24, 1924, near Ryan, in Milo Township, Delaware County, Iowa, the third son of Johann and Johanna (Leesecamp) Helmrichs. He grew up on the family farm and attended Delaware County rural schools. In 1946, he was employed by John Deere in Dubuque.

On June 12, 1947, Marvin married Doris Jean Hinman, and they moved to a farm in Prairie Township the following February. Four children were born to this union. Their farming operation continued in 1970 when they moved to a farm in Oneida Township. Marvin and Doris opened their home to many foster boys over the next few years.

Marvin retired in 1974. His many hobbies included woodworking, gardening, camping, and fishing. Marvin enjoyed playing his accordion and mandolin at area music jams and senior dances. He was a member of First Lutheran Church in Manchester.

Survivors include his wife of 71 years, Doris of Manchester; his four children, Terry (Diane) Helmrichs of Cedar Falls; Darlene (Larry) Marske of Grundy Center; and Johann (Patricia) Helmrichs and Mark (Patricia) Helmrichs, all of Manchester; 11 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and a niece, Verla (Dave) Tegler of Manchester.

Marvin was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Rhinehart and Bertus Helmrichs; a nephew, Arlyn Helmrichs; one foster son, James Birt; and a great-grandson, Zayden Weaver.

Memorials may be directed to Hospice of Comfort or the University of Iowa for cancer research.

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