David Neil Helstrom, better known as "The Walking Encyclopedia" passed away in Huntersville, North Carolina, surrounded by his loving family, at the age of 81.

A former resident of Cheektowaga, New York, and a proud veteran of the US Navy, David was a Floral Designer at Eckels Florist (Cheektowaga), DeWalds Florist (Buffalo), and the Bouquet Shoppe (Bowling Green, Kentucky).  David loved gospel music and sang proudly at his church, Fairview United Methodist, in Bowling Green.  He spent the last years of his life relaxing in Huntersville, North Carolina.

From his final post there in North Carolina, he also continued to be known as the greatest armchair coach and quarterback the Buffalo Bills ever had.

A beloved husband of 57 years to Leah (nee Nespal) Helstrom. He was the devoted father of Babette (David) Pustulka, Eugene (Debra) Helstrom, Holly (Andy) Hammack, Carl (Silvia) Helstrom, Amy (Bill) Gray and Eileen Helstrom and loving grandfather of 20 and fond great-grandfather of eight.

David was also survived by his dearest sister Diane (late James) Shavers, his nephew Scott (Stacie) Shavers and by countless friends and loved ones .

Services were held earlier in Huntersville, North Carolina.

Donations in David's memory are preferred to Carolina Caring Foundation, located at 3975 Robinson Road, Newton, North Carolina 28658, who offered David and his family great care and understanding, at the time they needed it most.