Helmut Traichel

Helmut Traichel, 73, of North Windham, CT died peacefully at home with his beloved wife at his side, December 8, 2016 after a long history of heart disease. He was born in Pudlow, Germany, January 9, 1943 to the late Gustave and Elfriede Traichel. He immigrated with his family to the United States in 1953 and became a lifelong resident of the Windham/Columbia area. After graduation from Windham Technical High School Helmut enlisted in the Army and was assigned to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Big Red 1, and was stationed in Germany as an interpreter. He enjoyed reuniting and visiting with his many relatives during the three years spent overseas. Returning home, he became a naturalized citizen and found employment with the U.S. Soil Conservation Service in Storrs, CT where he met his future wife Paulette. They married in 1968 and began raising their family in Columbia where they resided for 30 years. A dedicated individual to both family and community, Helmut worked tirelessly on numerous committees including the Republican Town Committee, the Board of Finance (FIPAC), Board of Assessment Appeals, Planning and Zoning and the Solid Waste Commission. In addition, he was actively involved in his children?s sports teams as a coach and avid spectator. Helmut began employment with the Metropolitan District Commission, Hartford, CT, in 1968 working within the organization in the departments of Engineering, Safety OSHA compliance, Personnel and Real Estate. He retired in 2000 after 32 years of service. In retirement, he continued to seek out opportunities for personal satisfaction that engaged his sense of purpose. He became certified as a Community Response Team (CERT) volunteer, trained in emergency procedures and disaster relief. He was heavily involved as a 2010 Census Bureau Enumerator, enjoying the interaction with many Connecticut citizens. Returning to Windham in 2002 he became active in local politics, serving as a past member of the Conservation Commission and current member of the Inland Wetlands Commission. He was also a lifetime member of the Willimantic Elks Lodge #1311, where he enjoyed his weekly setback league. Summers were spent beachside in Matunuck, R.I. and many winter days in San Diego, CA. In recent years, he was overjoyed to witness his precious grandchildren?s sporting events. A man of simple tastes and needs he was devoted to his family first and foremost. He is survived and greatly mourned by his wife of 48 years, Paulette (Lussier), his daughter Beth and Son-in-law Kenneth Falzone of Glastonbury, CT, his son Brian Traichel of San Diego, CA, and his treasured grandchildren Mia and Nicholas Falzone. In lieu of flowers feel free to remember Helmut with a good deed or helping someone in need as a tribute to his life. Calling Hours will be held Saturday, December 17, 2016 from 11:00 a.m. ? 1:00 p.m., with a Memorial Service to follow at Potter Funeral Home, 456 Jackson St (Rte.195) Willimantic, CT 06226. To sign the online memorial guest book, please visit www.potterfuneralhome.com