Kevin Heltzel Obituary

Kevin Charles Heltzel departed this life on Thursday, July 10, 2025, to reunite with his parents, Virginia Workman and Robert Heltzel, in heaven, who preceded him in death. He was born in South Bend, Indiana, on May 4, 1972. Kevin, affectionately known to family and friends as "Chuckie" or "Blinky", was an exceptionally social individual who effortlessly formed lasting connections with others. His kind heart and generosity inspired him to offer assistance to those in need, often going as far as to give the shirt off his back or his last dollar. Furthermore, he would ride his bicycle miles to deliver a cigarette to a friend.
Chuckie's profound love for animals was evident in his unwavering enthusiasm to engage with them, whether playing with dogs or offering cuddles to cats. All animals took to Chuckie. Chuckie was also an avid outdoorsman. He loved fishing and hiking, and from early spring to late summer, there wasn't a weekend he couldn't be found at the lake on the water kayaking. He also loved his bicycle and rode it everywhere, even in winter. He was a devoted fan of the Michigan Wolverines and took great pride in wearing his beloved blue and yellow Michigan hoodie. He also had a fondness for hats, which often became a source of amusement for his grandkids, nieces, and nephews, who would playfully steal them from his head just so he would chase them around. But most of all, he loved to smoke his favorite flavors.
Chuckie is survived by his wife, Carol Heltzel, of South Bend; his children, Scotty Gwynn of South Bend and Charlene Gwynn of Buchanan. His grandchildren; Nevaeh Webber, Analiah, and Artemis Gwynn of South Bend, Bobby, Andrew, and Danielle Masters of Buchanan. His brothers, Charles Dausman of South Bend, Elvis Lambert (Melissa) of Mishawaka, and Robert Lambert (Marjorie) of Mishawaka. And his brother-in-law, George Gwynn. In addition to his parents, Chuckie was also preceded in death by his brother, David Workman. He also had many nieces and nephews whom he loved as dearly as they loved him, including Chris Snyder, Michael Lambert, Nichole Holman, Audreyaunna Lambert, Robert (Hannah) Lambert, Robin Peppers, Brandon Holderman, Savannah Holderman, Ali Holderman, Chuck and Maria Colwell. His great-nieces and great-nephews included Zayden Lambert, Maddie, Paisley, and Ameila Haynes, Noah and Natalie Lambert, Kamdyn Garrett, Mirakal and Resa, Hannah, Brandon Jr, Ashton, Bentley, and Ellianna Holderman, Sametreius Gipson, Ryan O'Connell, Duane Meek Jr, Hailey, Chevelle, Nova, Charlie, and Emmanuel Colwell. And Brenden Gwynn Additionally, he had two great-great-nieces, Lakota Holderman and Samira Davis-Gipson. He will be missed tremendously and forever in our hearts. Our dearest Chuckie, you are free to fly with the angels now, free to sing your song; one day we will meet again and we will sing along.
Candlelight vigil at Beiger and 4th St intersection on Saturday July 19th at 9pm
Celebration of life/Cookout
Saturday July 26th. More info will be posted on Facebook by family
In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to his go fund me account to help offset his cremation costs.
https://gofund.me/80741c26
Palmer Funeral Home – Bubb Chapel is honored to be assisting the family with final arrangements.
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to the family, please visit our floral store.