With profound sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved brother, Damien Lee Helton, affectionately known to family and friends as Dave Roth, who left this world on October 21, 2026, at the age of 43.

Dave was more than a brother. He was a cherished friend, a source of laughter, and a light in the lives of those who knew him. Despite the many challenges he faced throughout his life, he met each one with remarkable strength and grace. He was the glue that held our family together. His laughter, love, and presence were constants in our lives, and his absence will be felt forever. Nothing will ever be quite the same without him. His stories will be told for generations, and the happiness he brought to others will never be forgotten.

He had a gift for bringing joy wherever he went. Whether it was batting his big, beautiful eyelashes that made every girl jealous, sharing his infectious smile, or simply being himself, Dave had a way of making people feel welcome and loved. He was known for his big heart and playful spirit. A proud world champion of pool noodle jousting and a lifelong fan of wrestling and monster trucks, he found countless ways to bring laughter and smiles to those around him. His nieces and nephews especially knew they had to stay alert whenever Dave was nearby, as he took great pride in playfully "running over" them with his wheelchair whenever the opportunity presented itself. No moment was too ordinary for Dave to turn into laughter, and no gathering was complete without the fun and joy he brought to it.

Dave embraced life with a sense of adventure and childlike wonder. Among the family's favorite memories was a trip to Alaska, where he spent the day at the Ice Park, laughing as family members slipped and crashed around the ice-skating rink, seeing reindeer up close, and visiting North Pole and the Santa Claus House. His playful spirit turned even the simplest moments, whether bouncing on a trampoline or cruising through stores on a motorized shopping cart, into treasured family memories filled with laughter.

Dave leaves behind his brother, William (Heather) Helton; his sisters, Elizabeth (Brandon) Elliott, Laura Chittum, and Tara (Jason) Hicks; and his loving parents, Kendy and Fred Roth, all of whom will carry his memory in their hearts forever. He will also be deeply missed by his cherished nieces and nephews, Aunna, Kate-Lynn, Karolynn, Cameron, Roland, Silas, Memphis, and Tessa, as well as his beloved grandparents, Jon and NaDean Vanning, along with many extended family members and dear friends whose lives were touched by his kindness, humor, and strength.

He was preceded in death by many beloved family members, including his loving Aunt Teresa. We find comfort in believing they have been joyfully reunited and that she was there to welcome him home with open arms.

Dave was here. He faced life's challenges with courage, laughed often, and brought joy to those around him. He made us laugh, taught us strength, and filled our lives with love. He made a mark on the world, even if it was only our world, and for those of us lucky enough to know him, that was more than enough. Though our hearts are broken, we are grateful for every laugh, every memory, and every moment we were blessed to share with him.

In honor of Dave's joyful spirit, the family encourages everyone to share a laugh, make a memory with loved ones, and pool noodle joust whenever possible.

Deeply loved, forever missed, and never forgotten.