Homer Helter, known as the embodiment of patriotism, died on Sunday after suffering from two strokes, one on Tuesday and the other one on Sunday. After suffering the second stroke, Helter turned his eyes toward his wife, Diana, who was on the right side of his hospital bed, and mouthed his final words, “I love you.”

As he did not serve in the armed forces, he loved veterans and dedicated years to serving them.

His military collectibles and antique store has given them a place to gather and exchange war stories, talk politics and enjoy a meal together.

He had beeb working with volunteers to send more than 70 tons of supplies to active service members overseas since 2003. He gave them wheelchairs and planned their funerals.

the Rev. Donald Treglown, a close friend of Helter’s and senior pastor of Faith Lutheran Church in Naples said, “That’s a memory I’m going to always hold dear”. Treglown was on the left side of Helter’s hospital bed when he died. Treglown said, “Even in death, he was thinking of the people he loved,” .

Helter left Treglown an envelope with instructions for the Hannukah and Christmas deliveries so that someone could continue the legacy if anything happened.

Helter helped the pastor by visiting people in the hospital. Treglown said, “I think he had the most generous heart I’ve ever seen in a person”.

Helter wanted to serve in the military but couldn’t because married men were not drafted. So he joked that being married to his high school sweetheart was his service, said Lois Bolin, a local historian and friend of Helter’s.

Bolin said, “He never met anyone he didn’t like, unless they tested his trust or did something against veterans” .

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By Prakriti Neogi