July 24, 2021
1932-2021 ~ We are sad to announce the passing of Helmut Aichelberger (Helm) in Duncan, B.C. on July 24th, 2021. Helm was born in Germany in 1932 and immigrated to Canada with his wife Charlotte in 1955.
He started his career in the printing industry at The Cowichan Leader and later formed his own company called Duncan Print Craft.
In the early days Helm and a few German buddies formed a band called The Happy Wanderers and they played in dance halls throughout the Cowichan Valley until around 1958. Helm went on the be instrumental in the early growth of the Cowichan Valley Soccer Association acting as a coach, referee, organizer, and scheduler. He was involved on the committee level for the creation of the current Cowichan District Hospital and the Aquannis Centre Swimming Pool complex.
Helm was also an avid bowler and went on to play in the national championships. Helm also loved fishing and formed many traditions surrounding this activity with his friends.
Helm is survived by his wife Charlotte, sons Gerhard and Ron (Cyndi), 7 Grandchildren and 3 Great Grandchildren (with more on the way).
Helm lived a full and happy life. He loved his community, gardening and maintaining his beautiful home. Above all, he loved his family, and he was very proud to have come to Canada to lay the foundations for his family's growth.