Norman L. Helmke was born on October 17, 1947 to Norman B. and Lavonne G. (Telkamp) Helmke in Ft. Dodge, Iowa.  He was an Iowa native for most of his life and loved the endless horizons and vistas the state has to offer.  He was an ardent Hawkeye football fan and never missed a game on TV.  His favorite saying was "Touchdown, Iowa!"  Aside from a never ending love of family, aviation was his passion.  His Army career began with a year served in Vietnam as a helicopter pilot.  During this time, he received several medals including the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Bronze Star and many others that were presented with valor.  He was a true American hero.  His professional career as a pilot carried him through many years, where he eventually was flying corporate jets.  His later years offered him the opportunity to be a corporate trainer where he was able to share his knowledge with many pilots all over the world.  He loved family genealogy and created a comprehensive family tree for several family members.

Norm was preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Lavonne Helmke.  He is survived by his loving wife, Cindy; and his three sisters, Linda Jelacic, of Fridley, MN, Janine (Roger) Nelson of Decorah, IA, JoAnn (Bill) Schnell of Webster City, IA; brother, Alan (Rita) Helmke of Eagle Grove, IA.  Also surviving are his children and step-children, Lance (Heather) Helmke of Las Vegas, NV, Lara Rosendahl of Cedar Rapids, IA, Christine (Scott) McFatridge, Jill (Rob) Livingston of Clarendon Hills, IL, and Bob (Milissa) Cameron of Fishers, IN.  He was the proud Papa to twelve grandchildren, and Uncle Norm to many nieces and nephews.

A graveside and memorial will be held at a later date in Iowa with interment in the Military Cemetery at Van Meter, IA.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research: https://www.michaeljfox.org

Forest Lawn Funeral Home is privileged to serve the Helmke family.