Final Salute

Arlyn Louis Helke, 79, of Geneseo, passed away on Monday, December 22, 2025, at Hillcrest Home, Geneseo.  A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, December 29, 2025, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Edford Township/Geneseo, IL.  Reverend Timothy Nerud will officiate.  Burial will follow at St. John’s Cemetery.  Visitation will be held from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 28, 2025, at Vandemore Funeral Homes & Crematory – Geneseo Chapel.  Memorials may be directed to the American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, Veterans Association of America, St. John’s Lutheran Church and Quad Cities Honor Flight.

Arlyn was born on March 14, 1946, in Geneseo, Illinois, to Willard and Louise (Kunert) Helke. He graduated from Orion High School (class of 1964) and went on to earn his associate’s degree from Black Hawk College.

Arlyn proudly served his country in the United States Navy as a Seabee.  He actively served in Vietnam during the Vietnam War from 1965 to 1966. He dedicated many years of his career to the City of Geneseo, where he worked at the wastewater treatment plant, until his retirement

He married Marcia Bartz at St. John’s Lutheran Church on June 18, 1967.  They had been married 58 years.  A faithful member of St. John’s Lutheran Church, Arlyn was passionate about Geneseo football and the Chicago Bears. His love of adventure took him on motorcycle trips through at least 49 states, and he enjoyed fishing, drag racing, golfing, and woodworking. He traveled to Jamaica, Canada, and Costa Rica, creating lasting memories along the way. Arlyn enjoyed his monthly get togethers with his Military friends and fellow class mates.

Since 1972, Arlyn warmly welcomed international visitors into his home and served as co-coordinator for the Geneseo International Thanksgiving Fellowship Program, fostering connections across cultures.

Those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife, Marcia Helke of Geneseo; sons, Sean Helke and Derek Helke – both of Geneseo; grandchild, Conner Helke; and brother, Terry (Joni) Helke of Coal Valley, sister in laws Diana Helke of Coal Valley, Jane Helke of Orion, and several nieces and nephews.

Arlyn was preceded in death by his parents, Willard and Louise Helke; and brothers, Richard and Robert Helke.