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Lawrence Hellkamp, 84, formerly of Benton, KY and Cincinnati, OH, peacefully passed away Tuesday morning, September 18, 2018, at his home in Columbus, GA.
Larry Hellkamp was born in Cincinnati, Ohio on June 12, 1934, to Elizabeth and Edward Hellkamp. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Richard, and grandson Clint. He was a graduate of Purcell Marion High School. Larry Hellkamp was a Ship’s Photographer on the USS Tarawa during the Korean War. After serving four years in the Navy, he became an X-Ray Technician at Cincinnati’s Good Samaritan Hospital, eventually becoming the Chief Tech. He joined the Westinghouse Corporation as a Tech Rep for several years and later joined the Radiology Department of Cincinnati Jewish Hospital. As administrative head of Radiology, he created and implemented numerous procedures in the advancement of Radiologic Technology, most notably low-dose X-radiography for which he was inducted into the prestigious Phantom Society. He became the only non-MD appointed to the Board of Directors of Jewish Hospital. An innovator and creative thinker, he worked to turn around the struggling radiology department of Duke University Medical Center, then rejoined Cincinnati Jewish Hospital where he pioneered Mobile Diagnostics, eventually starting his own business, TSI. After retirement, Larry and his wife, Rita, ran Southern Komfort Resort and Marina in Benton, KY, before they moved to Georgia to be near family.
A competitive swimmer in high school, he never lost his love of the water and boating. He was also an accomplished longbow archer and marksman. Larry was a faithful Catholic and a 3rd degree Knight of Columbus who started the 40 hour adoration program at his parish.
Survivors include his wife Rita and ten children: Christine (Bernie) Nitz, Leo, Martin (Diane), Stephen, Thomas, Philip (Carol), Alex (Marcia), Paul (Charlotte), Lori (Lee), and Sara (Steven) Voynich, fifteen grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren.
A Rosary will be Friday, September 28th at 11:00 AM at St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Columbus followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:30 with military honors. After Mass, guests are invited to visit with the family in the church’s Visitation Hall. Mr. Hellkamp will be privately interred by the military at Ft. Mitchell National Cemetery in Ft. Mitchell, AL.
The Hellkamp Family is being assisted by Georgia Cremation, 7500 Veterans Pkwy, Ste. A, Columbus, GA 31909, 706-577-0055. The family invites you to leave a condolence or share a fond memory of Mr. Hellkamp below.
Dale and Drew Collinson says
Condolences to our cousins, Rita, Lori, and Sara. I did not have the privilege or opportunity to get to know Larry very well, but I remember how happy he was during my visits to the resort. He seemed to thrive on that lifestyle. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Now and always.
David and Joni says
Our prayers and sympathy to the Hellkamp family. I didn’t know Larry but I fo know he has great grown children. Our good friend Marty is one of the best Loving, fun, innovative, a giver and lover of life !
April Apple says
So sorry for your loss. Larry was a great guy, I enjoyed getting to know him when he lived in Durham and worked at Duke. What a great mind he had!!! He is missed already. May God give you the strength to endure this hard time but know that he is happy and whole and having a great time in heaven. Larry until we meant again! Love April Apple
Donna Maley says
My sympathy and prayers go out to Larry’s family. Larry was my boss when I accepted a part-time secretarial position at Jewish Hospital in 1979. He was a wonderful boss and a great man to work for. I remember visiting Southern Komfort and staying in the cabins and my boys still remember that trip – camping and fishing. Larry and Rita were wonderful hosts. I reconnected with Larry and Rita a couple of years ago and it has been so nice talking with them – especially talking to Larry about “old” times at Jewish. Thank you for the memories Larry and until we meet again…! Donna
Fred and Ellie Moellendick says
Although we never met Larry, we know most of his children. His son Marty is our son in law who we truly love. Our deepest sympathy goes to Rita and the rest of the family.
Sandy Thomas says
My deepest sympathy, Rita, to you and your family. Thinking of you and hoping for better days to come.