Kathryn L. “Kas” (Gladfelter) Helwig, 94, of New Oxford, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 30, 2026 at Cross Keys Village – The Brethren Home Community in New Oxford. She was the loving wife of the late Charles A. Helwig, with whom she shared 65 years of marriage before his passing in 2018.

Born on August 15, 1931, in Hanover, Kas was the daughter of the late Charles and Rosa (Ecker) Gladfelter.

Born and raised in Hanover, Kas attended Eichelberger High School. After marriage Charles and her began building a life centered on family, faith, and love. She helped Charles with his Dairy Dan business, selling ice cream, while devoting herself to raising their family and caring for their home.

Kas was a kind, gentle, and devoted mother who never raised her voice to her children. She always looked forward to holidays, picnics, and other family gatherings. Known for her remarkable generosity and welcoming spirit, Kas made everyone feel at home. There was always a place for you at her house, and most likely a fresh pot of coffee waiting.

She fought fiercely for those she loved and loved them even more deeply. Kas was a trusted confidante, a source of comfort, and a true role model to her family. Through her words and example, she encouraged those around her to become the very best versions of themselves.

Kas enjoyed completing crossword puzzles, reading books, and spending time with those she loved. She was also a longtime and faithful member of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Hanover. After a courageous 12-year battle with Alzheimer’s disease, Kas is now at peace and reunited with her beloved husband and her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Kas is survived by her four children, Joseph Helwig and his wife, Sandy, of Gettysburg, Stephen Helwig and his wife, Pat, of Hanover, Debra Flickinger and her husband, Terry, of Hanover, and Sharon Crook and her husband, Brian, of Hanover; four grandchildren, Becky Helwig, Jason Helwig, Kevin Crook, and Megan Fitzgerald and her husband, Cody; and three great-grandchildren, Skyler Staub, Grace Crook, and Nathan Fitzgerald.

She is also survived by her sisters, Patty Shaffer and Nancy Leese; her half-brothers, Jack Gladfelter and Robert Gladfelter; her stepsister, Vicky Roser; as well as many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

In addition to her husband and parents, Kas was preceded in death by her sisters, Shirley Gladfelter, Charlotte Smith, Betty Hyde, and Janet Brady; her brother, Charles Gladfelter, Jr.; and her half-sisters, Dot Hammond and Lana Miller.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, August 7, 2026, at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 220 Third Street, Hanover, with the Rev. Michael P. Reid II officiating. A viewing and time to share memories will be held on Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Wetzel Funeral Home & Crematory, 549 Carlisle Street, Hanover. An additional viewing will be held on Friday from 10 a.m. until the time of the Mass at the church. Burial will follow in St. Vincent Cemetery, Hanover.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association by mailing a check payable to the Alzheimer’s Association to P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011, or to St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 220 Third Street, Hanover, PA 17331.

To share memories of Kathryn L. “Kas” (Gladfelter) Helwig and to view her video tribute, please visit www.wetzelfuneralhome.com.