Philip C. Helderlein

Philip C. Helderlein, 86, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2024, surrounded by his family. Philly, or “Butch” as many of his friends and loved ones called him, was born on September 20, 1937, in McKeesport Hospital to Philip and Eleanor Helderlein. He grew up in Glassport, PA, and graduated from St. Peter’s High School in McKeesport, PA. Phil was the second generation of sign makers continuing to operate Helderlein Signs, a staple of the McKeesport community, which was in business for a remarkable 94 years.

Phil was married to his loving wife, Geraldine (“Geri”), of 65 years. He is survived by his three children: Philip John (Beth) Helderlein, Diane (Tom) Cain, and Renee (Michael) Komoroski. He is also survived by his five grandchildren: Bradley (Amanda) Baldwin, Ryan (Sue Wey) Baldwin, Philip John Jr. Helderlein, Kimberly Helderlein, and Sydney Komoroski; his three great-grandchildren: Isaac, Caleb, and Victoria; and his two sisters: Faye Parke and Carole Dunn.

Phil was an artist and original graphic designer. All of his signs in his early career were drawn by hand and set to scale by sight alone. One of his claims to fame was that he hand painted the name on a young Arnold Palmer’s boat. Phil was a craftsman and had a tool to repair almost anything. He was the go-to guy for last-minute projects as he was always willing to help. Phil was a member of St. Patrick Church - Mary, Mother of God Parish, as well as a member of the Loyal Order of Moose. He will be remembered for his love of family, his faith, and his dedication to his craft. He enjoyed playing horseshoes and collecting antiques. Phil was quiet, but had a fun sense of humor with his close friends and family. His family will forever miss the “Helderlein Shuffle.”

Phil’s family wants to express their gratitude to the entire staff on the fourth floor of UPMC East. They went above and beyond in helping Phil transition.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Mary, Mother of God Parish, St. Patrick Church, 312 32nd Street, McKeesport, PA 15132. Arrangements are being cared for by Strifflers of White Oak Cremation and Mortuary Services, Inc., 1100 Lincoln Way, White Oak, PA 15131 (Sue Striffler Galaski, supervisor, 412-678-6177).

Should friends desire, the family requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741, or to Mary, Mother of God Parish, 2701 Kelly Street, White Oak, PA 15131, in Phil's memory.

To share a memory or condolence, please visit www.strifflerfuneralhomes.com