Horst Helmke

Horst Helmke, age 89, of Nokomis, Florida, died peacefully on April 19, 2026. Horst was born and raised in East Germany and emigrated to West Germany when he was 18. There he met his future wife, Elfriede, who convinced him to immigrate to the U.S. They settled in Dayton, Ohio, and were happily married for 46 years.

Horst was a master wallpaper hanger, being trained in Germany, and had a very successful wallpaper hanging and painting business until he retired. He and his wife were also very active at the Dayton Liederkranz German Club, singing in the choirs and performing with the Liederkranz Volkstaenzers for more than 20 years. Horst and his wife retired to Nokomis, Florida, in 2003, where they thoroughly enjoyed the warm Florida weather.

Horst is preceded in death by his loving wife, Elfriede; his son, Horst-Gunter; his parents, and brother Eberhard Helmke. He is survived by daughters, Cornelia Shockey, of Nokomis, Florida, and Regina Tom (Jeffrey), of Huntsville, Alabama, grandchildren Marissa Tom, Corey Tom, and Brennan Tom (Alexis), and great-granddaughter Alaina, all of Huntsville, Alabama. Horst is also survived by his brothers, Gunter Helmke (Ilona), and Wilfried (Lena) Helmke, and many nieces and nephews and cousins, all of Germany.

A memorial mass will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 425 S. Tamiami Trail, Osprey, Florida.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to your favorite charity. Farley Funeral Home in Venice is handling the arrangements.  To send a condolence or memory please visit www.farleyfuneralhome.com .