David W. Helbing

David W. Helbing, age 56, of Scranton, passed away Thursday afternoon at the Regional Hospital of Scranton. Born in Scranton on April 5, 1956, son of the late Russell, Sr., and Lucille Pohoda Helbing, David was educated in Scranton Public Schools. Most recently, he had worked as a personal care aid for the United House in Scranton. An active volunteer for many years, his efforts with the Scranton-area chapter of Mended Hearts, Inc., earned him many accolades, including the Volunteer of the Year award. An animal lover, he adored his three Chihuahuas, Lucy, Scarlette and Chip. A loving brother, uncle, partner and friend, he will be forever missed by those who loved him. He is survived by his siblings, brother, Russell Helbing, Jr., and wife Shirley of Old Forge, and sisters, Patricia Rabiega and husband Robert of Nicholson, and LuAnn Becker and husband Richard of Scranton; four nieces and nephews, David's Godson, Erik Helbing, Ricky Becker, Tara Seymour and Renee' Joyce; six great nieces; one great-great niece; and his beloved loyal partner until the very end, Thomas Nash, Jr., with whom he resided. His family would like to acknowledge Dr. Michael G. Gilhooley and the staff of Regional Hospital's Intensive Care Unit for their outstanding care. Parastas will be conducted by Rev. Gary Mensinger, Pastor of St. Nicholas of Myra Byzantine Catholic Church, on Monday at 10:30AM in the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home, Inc., 517 North Main Street, Old Forge. Interment will follow at St. Nicholas' Parish Cemetery. Relatives and friends may pay their respects on Monday from 10:00AM until services. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in David's name to either St. Nicholas of Myra Building Fund, 140 Church Street in Old Forge, 18518, or to Griffin Pond Animal Shelter 967 Griffin Pond Road, Clarks Summit, 18411.