David Wayne Helvey, 62, of St. Ann, MO, walked peacefully into the loving arms of God on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at Mercy Hospital South in St. Louis, MO. A celebration of life will be held on January 26, 2026, from 3:00–7:00 p.m. at Ortmann-Stipanovich Funeral Home in Creve Coeur, MO.

Born in Troy, MO, on November 14, 1963, David was an alumnus of Wright City High School and proudly served in the United States Air Force. David lived a full and adventurous life—as a cowboy, bull rider, rodeo clown, horseshoer, wrestler, and skilled tradesman—but the titles he cherished most were Dad and Papa.

Beyond his many professions, David was a man of deep passions. He found joy in the simple, meaningful things—listening to the trees or watching the birds and squirrels at play. He possessed a creative soul that wandered freely and led him to many pursuits. Self-taught on the guitar, David could often be found filling the air with melodies carrying far beyond the strings. He found peace in the outdoors—camping beneath the stars, hunting, and fishing in quiet moments of reflection.

David also held a deep respect for Native American culture and art and expressed his creativity through woodworking, shaping pieces with patience, purpose, and heart. It was with this same patience, purpose, and heart that David raised his three children and cherished his time with his grandchildren. He shared his passions freely and instilled in those he loved a connection that will last forever. David was a man who chose gratitude over scarcity, focusing not on what he lacked, but on what he could give to others.

David's greatest passion was his family. His greatest accomplishment was raising his three children, working tirelessly to instill in them a strong sense of love, passion, and hard work—qualities they carry with them into adulthood. David devoted the last 12 years of his life to being a grandfather. He loved passing on his wisdom, skills, and creativity to his grandchildren. He could often be found strumming his guitar and singing with them, crafting, teaching them how to sew, or taking them camping and hunting. The true magic was found in the quiet moments, when Papa could sit back, relax, and simply be with his grandchildren—outside or at the park.

David was preceded in death by his father, Kenny Helvey, and his mother, Judy Kraft. He is survived by his children, Jascend Helvey (Shelley), David Helvey II (Alex), and Erin Helvey (Adam Lanier), as well as his three grandchildren, Elliot, Evelyn, and Bailey. David's legacy will live on through those he loved. He will forever be remembered for leaving a meaningful impact on those around him and then humbly saying, "I'm just me."

Friends and family are invited to Ortmann-Stipanovich Funeral Home on January 26, 2026, beginning at 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, we invite you to honor David's love for his grandchildren by contributing to a savings account created for their future. If you choose this option, checks can be written in care of Erin Myers.