Rev. Robert E. Helsel

DOVER – Rev. Robert E. Helsel, 80, entered into rest on Tuesday morning, April 8, 2025 at his home.  He was the loving husband of Karen A. (Shellenhamer) Helsel.  The couple celebrated 17 years of marriage on March 29, 2025.  He was the husband of the late Jacquita D. Helsel and Phyllis A. Helsel.

Born May 13, 1944 in Altoona, Robert was a son of the late Welford A. and Anna H. (Dilling) Helsel.

He graduated from Hollidaysburg Senior High School in 1962.  Robert went on to further his education at Philadelphia College of the Bible.  He proudly served in the U.S. Navy Reserves and the U.S. Army Reserves.

Robert was an Allstate Insurance Agent.  He also served as Assistant to the Pastor at Dover Bethany U.M. Church and previously as Pastor at A.M.E. Connection Church in Altoona as well as several other churches.

Robert was an active member of Dover Bethany Global Methodist Church.  Together with his wife, he delivered Meals On Wheels in the Dover area and volunteered with an after school youth program.  Robert loved music, especially jazz and classical.  He also enjoyed building things and collecting tools.

In addition to his wife, Karen, Robert is survived by a son, Kevin W. Helsel and wife, Gina of York; a daughter, Kimberly J. Altland and husband, James of Spring Grove; six grandchildren, Kevin, Kaley and Kenin Helsel and Renee, James Jr. and Juliana Altland; and a sister, Candace Kinser of Utah.  He was preceded in death by a grandson, Leland Altland.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Robert's funeral at 2 p.m. with a viewing from 1 to 2 p.m. on Monday, April 14, 2025 at Dover Bethany Global Methodist Church, 4510 Bull Rd., Dover.  Burial will follow in Dover Bethany Cemetery.  Officiating will be his pastor, the Rev. Salvatore Buonocore.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Emig Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Inc., Dover.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Dover Bethany Global Methodist Church, 4510 Bull Rd., Dover, PA 17315.

To share memories of Robert and condolences with his family, please visit www.emigfuneralhome.com.

Dover Bethany Global Methodist Church
4510 Bull Rd., Dover PA 17315