Eugene Charles Hellwig

July 17, 1924 - March 7, 2021

Hellwig, Eugene Charles 96, of Albany, California, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, and his loving wife Donna Mary (Leth) Hellwig on March 7, 2021. He was born at 1235 Marin Av., Albany California – less than a mile from where he lived for more than 64 years – and passed away in his sleep. Gene was the son of Charles Ernst Hellwig and Audrey May Tidball. He graduated from Albany High School in 1943 but enlisted in the Navy in December of 1942 so his mother had to go to the school to pick up his diploma. He was a veteran of WWII, the Korean War and served on the ship USS Mississippi. During his youth, he delivered the Oakland Tribune paper to customers in Albany and various part time jobs to help pay for his hot rods.

After returning from military service, he dropped out of college to take a job with the Pacific Bell Telephone Company and worked there until he retired in 1985. In addition, he served with the Albany Police Dept. as a reserve officer for more than 20 years.

Gene was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, attending church as a member of the Berkeley Ward. In addition, he served many years as an ordinance worker in the Oakland Temple of the Church. Through the years attending the Berkeley Ward, he was totally dedicated to his beliefs, and willing to assist anyone, anywhere that may need a helping hand.

He married Donna Mary (Leth) Hellwig on August 1, 1948 and were married almost 68 years when Donna passed away on April 24, 2016. He leaves behind two sons, Brian (Toni) and Keith (Leila), both of Ohio; two daughters, Leigh Anne Castellon of El Cerrito, and Marsha of Albany. He also leaves 13 grandchildren, one of which passed away in 2007 (Heather) and 29 great-grandchildren.

Visitation and funeral services will be held on Thursday, March 18^th beginning at 10:00am. Attendance is limited due to current pandemic conditions and will be held at the Sunset View Funeral Home in El Cerrito, CA. Bishop Dula Parkinson of the Berkeley Ward of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints will preside. Interment will follow in the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery, 5810 Midway Rd., Dixon CA. Arrangements are being handled by the SUNSET VIEW FUNERAL HOME, El Cerrito CA.

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I just heard of Gene’s death. I will keep fond memories of when he came for home visits. My then young children loved his visits as “the tickle monster”. He was an important part of our lives at that time. I will remember him with joy whenever I think of him or drive by the house in Albany.

Gene and Donna are a HUGE part if my Girl's camp memories! I used to love seeing him wearing his pin that said "im not a dirty old man...im a sexy senior citizen!" I love that he lived life to the fullest and had a phenomenal sense of humir! Til we meet again Gene!

Keith, Bryan, Leigh Ann, and Marsha, sorry to hear of the loss of your father. He was a good man with a great sense of humor - fun to be around. Sounds like he hung in there a long time, we lost my folks years ago. Hopefully his later years were good to him and good for you. May the Lord's spirit and the knowledge of reunions to come comfort you at this time.

So sorry to hear this news but grateful it was a peaceful passing. Gene was a wonderful man and I have many fond memories of him and your family. Much love to you all and may the Lord comfort and sustain you at this time.

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Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.