Richard J. Helfrich
Richard J. “Dick” Helfrich, 96, of Petrolia, a well-known area resident and retired business man, passed away peacefully on June 21, 2021.
He was born Nov. 19, 1924, in Bruin. He was the youngest son of Frank and Margaret Michael Helfrich.
Richard attended school in Bruin.
He was a corporal in the U.S. Army, and served during World War II in England, France and Germany. He was recalled to active duty for the Korean War, and served in Korea and Japan.Dick is survived by his wife, Lois A. Byers Helfrich, whom he married on Nov. 10, 1947, in Evans City.Dick and his wife were longtime members of St. Peter's Reformed Church in Fairview, and were currently members of the Fairview Presbyterian Church.Dick was employed at Witco Chemical in Petrolia for 31 years, and also owned and operated oil wells in Fairview Township for 20 years. He operated Helfrich American Service Station in Bruin, for many years.He was a member of the VFW, American Legion in Chicora, and was an associate member of the Fraternal Order of Police in Butler for 50 years. Dick was a life member of the Petrolia Volunteer Fire Department.Dick and his wife rode motorcycles for many years. He also enjoyed golf, bowling, and Nascar racing.In addition to his wife, he is survived by three children, Coleen Smith and her husband, William, of Aliquippa, Melanie Smith and her husband, Robert, of Coudersport, and Richard Helfrich Jr. and his wife, Dawn, of Karns City; six grandchildren, Matthew, Emily, Michael, Corey, Leslie and Bryan; and 14 great-grandchildren.He was preceded in death by a brother, William; and a sister, Kathryn Bartoe; as well as a number of brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.The family would like to thank Quality Life Services of Chicora, and Three Rivers Hospice for the excellent and compassionate care they provided.HELFRICH — Friends of Richard J. “Dick” Helfrich, who died Monday, June 21, 2021, will be received from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday at Hile Funeral Home of Karns City, 128 Main St., Karns City.A funeral service will follow at 1 p.m. at the funeral home with the Rev. Dennis Barger, a longtime family friend officiating.Interment will follow at Bear Creek Cemetery in Petrolia.Military honors will be accorded by members of the Chicora and Bradys Bend American Legion posts at the funeral home.Memorial contributions may be made to the Fairview Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 204, Petrolia, PA 16050.Condolences may be sent by visiting www.hilefh.com.
