Ferdinand O. Helbing , 84, passed away on Saturday, November 3, 2012 at Foothill Acres Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Hillsborough. Born in Kiel, Germany, Ferdinand arrived in the United States in 1954 and resided in Chatham before moving to Bridgewater forty four years ago. Mr. Helbing worked as a Chemical Engineer for 40 years with various companies, until retiring in 1989 from Foster Wheeler. Ferdinand was a Cub Scout leader for eight years and loved oil painting. He was an avid traveler, often returning to his homeland, Germany. Most important to him was his family, especially his grandsons. He was preceded in death by his parents, Otto and Meta Helbing; and his beloved wife of 55 years, Gisela Tank Helbing, in 2006. Surviving are his loving son, Fred Helbing and his wife, Katrina of Warren; his two cherished grandsons, Tyler and Justin; six sisters in Germany and one sister in New York City; and several nieces and nephews. Viewing hours are Tuesday, November 6, 2012 from 6 to 9 PM at Branchburg Funeral Home, 910 US Highway 202 South, Branchburg, NJ 08876 (908) 526-7638 with a Prayer Service to begin at 8:30 PM. To send a lasting tribute or condolences to the Helbing family, please sign the online guestbook. Click "Sign Guestbook" below.