Michael Helle

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Michael Helle, age 66, of Knoxville, Tennessee, who peacefully left us on September 10, 2023. Mike was born in Paulding, Ohio, on February 19, 1957, and his life was a testament to love, service, and connection. After graduating from Greeneville High School in 1975, Mike married his high school sweetheart Libby Susong in April 1976 and shortly after proudly served in the U.S. Army in Augsburg, Germany. His commitment to both his country and his family was unwavering, setting the stage for a life filled with love and dedication. Following his military service, Mike pursued his academic ambitions at the University of Tennessee, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance. Following his graduation, he embarked on his professional journey at FedEx, where he dedicated many years of service before transitioning to Cherokee Distributing. Mike was a man of many passions, chief among them being the love he had for his family. His devotion to Libby, his wife of many years, was unwavering. He was a proud father to sons Nick and Paul, who brought immense joy to his life. His love extended to his daughters-in-law, Kylie and Michelle, and his grandchildren, Brayden, Brooklyn, and Jackson Grey, who were the lights of his life. Beyond his family, Mike was known for his ability to bring people together, often hosting gatherings where he shared his love of cooking and showcased his culinary talents. His passion for golf was a source of enjoyment and camaraderie for many. Mike was a man who embraced each moment with enthusiasm and a genuine sense of togetherness while always living the High Life. His infectious spirit drew people in, creating lasting memories for all who were fortunate enough to know him. Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Eldean Helle, and his brother, Dave Helle. He also joined his father-in-law, Kenneth “Doc” Susong in the afterlife. He is survived by his beloved wife, Libby Helle, his sons, Nick and Paul Helle, and their loving wives, Kylie and Michelle. His legacy lives on through his cherished grandchildren, Brayden, Brooklyn, and Jackson Grey. Mike is also survived by his brother, Butch Helle, sister, Julie Helle, sister-in-law, Jane Morrison, mother-in-law, Jean Susong, and caring in-laws, Mike and Becca Gosnell, Rick and Sandra Smith, Mike and Martha Bender. He leaves behind numerous nephews and nieces, each holding a special place in his heart: Ben Helle, Katie Sunday, Carrie Curry, Scott Helle, Keith Helle, Carly Payne, Mackenzie Ontiveros, Ty Gosnell, Aryn Cooper, Adam and Angela Bender, and Sarah Smith. A celebration of Mike's life will be held at Rose-Mann Funeral Home. Friends and well-wishers are invited to pay their respects during the receiving of friends from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Saturday, September 16th, followed by a service at noon. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to the First Tee of Knoxville or any local food pantry in Mike's memory. These gestures of kindness would honor his spirit of giving and his love for golf and feeding others. Mike Helle's presence in our lives was a gift that will forever be cherished. His warmth, kindness, and zest for life will be greatly missed, but his memory will continue to bring smiles to our faces and warmth to our hearts. May he rest in eternal peace. The family invites you to visit and sign his online guestbook at rosefuenraltn.com.

Tributes

Michael Helle

February 19, 1957 - September 10, 2023