John D. Hellenberg

John Dawson Hellenberg, 86 of Gaylord, passed away Friday, December 23, 2022, at Aspen Ridge.

Born March 23, 1936, in Monroe, Michigan, John was the son of Bernard and LeReign (Dawson) Hellenberg.

After graduating from high school, John attended General Motors Institute, worked in automobile sales and for a paper company before joining the United States Army. 

His career in education began after his military service, when he attended Eastern Michigan University where he received his bachelor’s degree.  He went on to the University of Michigan where he received his master’s degree in vocational education.

While attending Eastern Michigan University, John met the love of his life, Margaret Jane Allen.  They were married on April 4, 1961, at First Congregational Church in Ypsilanti.    

John enjoyed a long career in vocational education, where he taught retail and ran the school store at Oscoda High School.  He also worked with and oversaw the welding, woodshop, and building teachers.  After retiring, John and Margaret moved to Gaylord in 1995.

In earlier years, John enjoyed hunting and fishing.  Along with Margaret and their children, he enjoyed family camping trips and spending time on his pontoon boat.  He also enjoyed overseeing construction of their Gaylord Home.  His faith was an important part of his life, and in Gaylord, he and Margaret have been members of First Congregational Church.

John is survived by Margaret, his wife of 62 years; his children, Susan (Steve) Swaton of Marshall and David Hellenberg of Gaylord; grandchildren, Christopher Hellenberg, Jessica (Matt) Topp, Kurt Swaton and Brett Swaton; and a great granddaughter, Lilly.  He was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother, James Hellenberg.

A memorial service to remember John’s life will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, January 7, 2023, at First Congregational Church in Gaylord where the family will visit with friends beginning at 10:00 AM.  Those who wish are asked to consider memorial contributions to First Congregational Church Memorial Fund.

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