Benjamin R. Helmuth, 76, of LaGrange, died Monday August 14, at his residence.

He was born on September 19, 1946, in Sturgis, Michigan to Rudolph and Marjorie (Hostetler) Helmuth.

Ben served his country during the Vietnam War in the U.S. Air Force. He served from 1966 1972.

He worked as the head of maintenance at Lakeland School Corporation and retired from the school after 32 years of service.

He held memberships at the Mt. Zion Lutheran Church, LaGrange American Legion Post #215, and served as past, Worshipful Master, at the Meridian Sun Lodge F&AM; #76, Fort Wayne Scottish Rite, LaGrange County Shrine Club, Mizpah Shrine of Northeastern Indiana and the Hoosier Kite flier's Society.

On September 16, 1973, he married Shirley K. Rheinheimer at the Mt. Zion Lutheran Church. She survives in LaGrange.

Also surviving is his son, Jeff (Mary) Helmuth of Wolcottville; a daughter, Shannon (Chad) Clark of Montpelier, Indiana; 5 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.

Preceding Ben in death are his parents; a sister, Judith P. Kimpel; and a brother, Kerry Helmuth.

A Celebration of Life service will take place at the LaGrange American Legion Post #215, 100 Industrial Parkway, LaGrange, IN 46761, on Sunday, August 27, from 1 p.m. 4 p.m.

A Masonic service will take place at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday with the American Legion performing military rites afterwards.

Memorials may be contributed in Ben's memory to the Mt. Zion Lutheran Church or Shriners Hospital for Children or the American Legion Post #215.

Online condolences may be submitted to the family at www.fruripmayfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements by Frurip-May Funeral Home, LaGrange, IN.