John Edgar Helbing, 57, of Pataskala, Ohio, passed away on April 23, 2026, at his home. Born in Newark, Ohio, on August 18, 1968, John attended Licking County JVS where he trained to become a skilled welder. John spent most of his career as a welder for the Spillman Company. He took pride in his work that contributed to the construction of COSI in downtown Columbus and would point out the structure anytime it was driven by.
John left his career to care for his children Derek Helbing (Lydia) and Rachel Edwards (Chris). His kids lovingly and jokingly would call him the “mini van man” as he would shuttle them to their sports practices. He never missed the chance to cheer them on at their games from the outfield fence.
John was an outdoorsman, a dog lover, a baseball coach, a classic rock enthusiast, and a man that always had a joke to tell. He could be heard belly laughing from rooms away and it was too infectious not to join in.
In addition to his children, John is survived by his high school sweetheart and loving wife of 38 years, Stephanie Helbing, brother, Scott Ward (Donna), stepsisters, Lisa Minerd and Lori Long, stepfather-in-law, James Giffin, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and a list of others who laugh a little harder and have a lot more fun because they got to know John.
John was preceded in death by his parents, Martha Ward and Stephen Helbing, mother-in-law, Carolyn Giffin, and father-in-law, Edson DeVore.
John will be remembered for his wit, his ingenuity and craftsmanship, and his family that he always reminded how much he loved and was proud of. At John’s request, no service will be held. If you wish to honor him, please consider a donation to an animal rescue or local youth sports organization.
To share a memory or leave a condolence for the family, visit www.snyderfuneralhomes.com
The Dowds-Snyder Funeral Home of Mount Vernon is honored to serve the family of John Edgar Helbing.
Funeral Home: Dowds-Snyder Funeral Home
Website: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com