Francis Frank P. Helme Jr., 85, passed away on Monday, March 6, 2017 in his home surrounded by his family.

Frank was born and raised in Pittston, he was the son of the late Frank and Vera Helme.

Frank was married to the former Eleanor V. Transue for 40 years before her passing in 2000. He graduated from Pittston High School in 1955. An Army veteran, he served at Ft. Devens, Massachusetts from 1952 to 1955. He received his drafting degree from Penn State Wilkes-Barre in 1957. Franks life was characterized by courage, infinite patience, and industry. He usually worked two or three jobs from factory work, to drafting, to janitorial work. His employers included Bethlehem Steel, various churches, and 33 years with the US Post Office. Frank was known for his warmth and gentle kindness. Generous with his time through the years, he volunteered at Gracedale, Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Hospital, Sacred Heart Parish, and St. Francis Retreat House. He embraced life, willing to try adventures such as riding with his son on his motorcycle, going on amusement park rides, sledding, and even cross-country skiing. Everyone experienced his optimism in his signature way of saying good-bye: Do a favor for me; keep smiling! He will be sorely missed.

Frank was a member of the Third Order of Franciscans Secular and a member of the Sacred Heart Parish Holy Name Society.

Frank is survived by his son Michael and wife Anne; brother John and wife Jackie; nephews John and James Helme, and Bill Crouse. He was Grandpa Frank or Papa Frank to Bob and Reggie Fleissners 11 grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by nephew Robert Helme and niece Susan Russo.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm with an additional calling hour on Friday from 8:15 am to 9:15 am in Morello Funeral Home, Inc., 3720 Nicholas Street, Easton, PA (Palmer Twp). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday at 10:00 am in Sacred Heart of Miller Heights Church, First Street and Freemansburg Avenue, Bethlehem. Interment with Military Honors will be in Gethsemane Cemetery, Palmer Twp.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the St. Francis Retreat House, 3918 Chipman Road, Easton, PA 18045. Online condolences may be offered at www.morellofuneralhome.com