Marilyn J. Helke, age 88, of Tipp City, Ohio, passed away on Friday, December 26, 2025, at Cypress Pointe Health Campus in Englewood, Ohio. Born on August 6, 1937, in Dayton, Ohio, Marilyn was the daughter of the late Joseph and Marian (Steineman) Mathes. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Robert A. Helke, and their son, Thomas Helke. Marilyn is survived by her children, Pamela Helke of Englewood, Ohio, and Michael Helke of New Carlisle, Ohio; her aunt, JoAnn Mathes of Beavercreek, Ohio; her sister-in-law, Gloria Shellhammer of West Milton, Ohio; her grandchild, Ryan Helke of Columbus, Ohio and many cousins.

A member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Tipp City, Marilyn was deeply involved in her community. She volunteered at The Clothesline in Tipp City, Arbogast Performing Arts Center in Troy, Ohio, the Schuster Center in Dayton, Ohio, as well as, the Upper Valley Medical Center gift shop. Marilyn's passions included playing golf with her late husband, bowling, and roller skating in her younger years. She also enjoyed playing cards, especially Bridge, Euchre, and Rummy. Above all, Marilyn was a devoted mother who will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 753 S. Hyatt St., Tipp City, Ohio 45371, with the Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11:00 AM. Burial will take place at Maple Hill Cemetery in Tipp City. Following the burial, the family invites all to join them for a luncheon and a sharing of memories at the church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in memory of Marilyn to St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. Arrangements have been entrusted to Frings and Bayliff Funeral Home. Condolences may be expressed online at www.fringsandbayliff.com.

St. John the Baptist Catholic Church Memorial Fund
753 S. Hyatt St., Tipp City OH 45371