Thomas Patrick Helbling went to be with his Lord on Thursday, February 12, 2009. He was born in St. Anthony, North Dakota on March 17, 1941. Tom joined the United States Marine Corp in 1958. He married Darlene Ziniel in September 1960 and relocated to the Tri Cities that same year. He was a farmer all his life. Tom worked for Chevron Chemical and Sperry Rand New Holland. He managed large farm operations around the Tri Cities area for Hollzinger Fruit and Charlie Cox Farms. Tom was an active member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church where he ushered, a ministry he truly loved. He was happiest when he was visiting family and friends and tending to his garden. He also loved woodworking, playing cards, fishing, camping and socializing with everyone around town. Tom was a 4th degree Knight of Columbus. He loved his children and grandchildren. Tom is survived by his wife, Darlene of 48 years; his son, Darrell Helbling and wife Mary of Kent, WA; his daughter Becky Auckland and husband Bart of Kennewick, WA; his son Darren Helbling of Auburn, WA; and daughter Belinda McDermott and husband Ron of Duvall, WA; grandchildren; Derek Hickman, Katy Helbling, Bryce Auckland, Jackie Helbling, Lawyer Helbling, Anna Helbling, Brandon Auckland, Gavin McDermott and Carson McDermott. He is also survived by three brothers, Frank Eva Helbling, St. Anthony, ND; Ed Helen Helbling, Mandan, ND; Jim Della Helbling, Bismarck, ND; and five sisters, Marge John Krance, Bismarck, ND; Betty Stan Rhode, Mesa, AZ; Gladys Ray Eckroth, Dallas, OR; Bernice Armondo Onoro, Fresno, CA; and Felicia Lang, Fresno, CA. Viewing will be Wednesday, February 18, 2009 from 3-8 PM at Mueller's Tri-Cities Funeral Home, 1401 S. Union in Kennewick. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, February 19, 2009 at 10:00 am at St. Joseph's Catholic Church located at 506 A S. Garfield in Kennewick with a burial to follow at Desert Lawn Memorial Park in Kennewick. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Tri-Cities Chaplaincy Hospice, 2108 West Entiat Avenue, Kennewick, WA 99336.