Duane L. Helman, 81, 6675 N St Rt 235, died on the afternoon of Wednesday, June 21, 2023, at his home.
He was born November 18, 1941, in Sidney, Ohio, the son of the late Emory and Lucille (Barlow) Helman of Hardin.
He is survived by Carolyn (Gross) Helman, his wife of over 62 years, their three children, Jeff (Cindy) Helman of Sidney, Jon (Miriam) Helman of Conover, and Amy (Costa) Kokoropoulos of Oakwood, and sister-in-law, Phyllis (Gross) Lowe. Also surviving are many grandchildren and great grandchildren. Duane’s brother Dennis Helman, and many nieces and nephews survive him as well.
Duane was preceded in death by brothers, David Helman, Larry Helman, and twin brother, Dan Helman.
Duane was a farmer since his youth in Hardin, Ohio, and went on to establish Rosewood Machine & Tool, just over 50 years ago. He fulfilled his dream to become a private pilot and felt blessed to be able to collect and restore antique tractors, cars, and other types of utility vehicles and machinery, in his later years. By God’s providence, he came to possess the oldest Fordson tractor in the world, the experimental 9X. Duane’s acumen and accumulated knowledge brought him to become a world renowned Fordson expert, whose name can be found sprinkled in publications around the globe.
Duane invested more than just his time while serving on and chairing various boards, such as WEEC Radio, and Christian Academy Schools located in Sidney, Ohio. While Duane enjoyed speaking of his many accomplishments, he has always given God the glory for every success. What Duane did not speak of was his generosity. He took the fruits of his success in one hand and gave it away with the other, to an extent to which no one will ever know.
Duane spent the duration of his illness spreading the love of Christ and pointing everyone he met to a relationship with Jesus Christ.
Family and friends may attend the viewing at Cromes-Edwards Funeral Home on Tuesday, June 27, during the hours of 4 to 7 p.m. Services will be held on Wednesday, June 28, at 11 a.m., also at Cromes-Edwards. Burial will follow at Brookside Cemetery in Hardin, Ohio.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Christian Academy Schools in Sidney, Ohio.
