To understand Doug Helton’s father is to know he cared deeply about others.

“It was his upbringing by his parents,” Helton said. “It was a very strong Christian family who believed in respect and reaching out to others.”

Don Helton – family patriarch, longtime community and civic leader and operator of Auburn’s Price-Helton Funeral Chapel for nearly 30 years – died last Sunday from pneumonia. He was 79.

Helton was revered and respected by many in the community. The hard-working man also maintained a close relationship with the Muckleshoot Tribe.

“When he had his second stroke, they came to his house and the elders prayed for him,” Doug Helton said.

In tribute, Tribal representatives will present a blanket to the Helton family. It will be placed inside Helton’s casket.

Funeral services are 1 p.m. today at Grace Community Church, 1320 Auburn Way S. A private entombment will be at Mountain View Cemetery.

Helton, born and raised in Camas, graduated from California College of Mortuary Science in Los Angeles. He worked as a funeral director in Olympia and Tacoma before coming to Auburn to manage and then own Price-Helton Funeral Chapel. He remained there from 1955 to 1986 before retiring.

Doug Helton recalls his father worked long and hard, both in business and in community service.

“He always was a hard worker,” he said. “He would hire me as a young boy … You would never stand still”

The elder Helton enjoyed travel and recreational flying. He was a licensed pilot for 30 years, one of three pilots in the family.

Helton’s life was filled with service and volunteering. He served two terms on the city planning council, was past president of the Auburn Kiwanis Club and Washington State Funeral Directors Association. He also served on the YMCA board of directors and worked with the White River Valley Historical Society.

He was often rewarded for his contributions. He left a memorable legacy for family and friends.

“He accomplished a lot in his life,” Doug Helton said.

Helton was preceded in death by his wife, Betty, in 1993, and sister, Margie, in 2007.

He is survived by two sons, Doug (Mary Ann) of Kent, Ron of Vancouver and three daughters, Linda (Dennis) Jones of Mount Vernon, Keitha (Tim) Geehan of Puyallup, Karen Hartman of Cashmere, seven grandchildren, seven great grandchildren and close friend, Jeanette Wheeler.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the White River Valley Museum in Auburn. Online sentiments may be journaled at www.mem.com.