Helmut R. Rothenbuecher, 94, of Jackson Township, passed away on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at Aultman Hospital.

Helmut was born on September 20, 1930, in Germany to the late Josef and Maria Rothenbuecher.  He was an avid rower in his youth, earning multiple state championships. In the early 1950s, he embarked on a journey to the United States via a one-way ticket and just $50 in his pocket. His first home was in Detroit, Michigan, where he worked at a lighting company to support his pursuit of a business degree at the University of Michigan.

Helmut began his career with Firestone in 1956 as a bookkeeper at a small store in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Through dedication and hard work, he rose through the company's ranks, traveling extensively around the world and eventually leading Firestone's European operations. Having earned his American citizenship in 1960, he had proudly achieved the American Dream. After leaving Firestone in 1979, his professional journey continued as he led Tenneco's German operations for several years, presided over Ruecker Engineering in Michigan during the late 1980s, and returned to Berlin to head Berliner BärenSiegel GmbH until his retirement in 1990. Following his retirement, he moved back to the United States to be close to his children and grandchildren. Helmut enjoyed watching sports, particularly soccer and football, with a particular affection for the Michigan Wolverines.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 28 years, Ilona (Schulz) Rothenbuecher; daughter Linda Gemind (Edward) and grandchildren Sara and Anna (fiancé Blake); son Alan (Robin) and grandchildren Natalie (son-in-law Alex) and Tristian (fiancé Emily); daughter Gina Herdegen (Nicholas) and grandchildren Griffin and Ian; step-daughter Liane Gibert and step-grandchildren Anne-Marie and Tim (Marie); as well as his brothers, Manfred Rothenbuecher (sister-in-law Regina) and Roland Rothenbuecher (sister-in-law Margit).

The family plans to gather in celebration of Helmut's life at a future date.

Condolences may be sent to the family here on our tribute wall.