Robert Helsel

Robert “Cos” Helsel, age 74 of Erie, died on Christmas Day, December 25, 2017 at St. Mary’s at Asbury Ridge. 

He was born in Erie on July 6, 1943, a son of the late Calvin Helsel and Dorothy “Dot” Miller Helsel.

Cos graduated from Technical Memorial High School in 1961.

He worked more than 30 years in the automotive industry, was the owner of a local “speed shop”, and retired 12 years ago.

Cos loved his 6 dogs and his pacu fish “Lil Cos”. He enjoyed wood working, and he was the “go to guy” for motors and race engines.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers Max and George Helsel.

Survivors include his wife of 25 years Deborah “Deb” Helsel, a daughter Terri, (T.J.) Kremer of Lake City, a son Robert J. Helsel (Brenda) of Harborcreek, three grandchildren: Aaron, Logan and A’Leiah; a brother Jim Helsel (Judy) of Lake City, and a sister Carol (Dick) Bandley of Frewsburg, NY. Several nieces, nephews and many cousins also survive.

Friends may call at the Burton Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 602 West 10^th Street on Thursday from 4 pm to 7 pm, Friday from 2 to 4 pm and 6 to 8 pm, and are invited to the memorial service there on Saturday at 10 am. 

Memorials may be made to the ANNA Shelter, 1555 East 10^th Street, Erie PA 16511.