USS Thresher crew member, Marvin Theodore Helsius of Trout Creek.

Trout Creek resident Marvin Theodore Helsius was a Petty Officer Second Class Machinist’s Mate onboard the nuclear submarine, USS Thresher (SSN 593) during the boat’s final voyage.

A profile from the Thresher Base Submarine Veterans Society stated Helsius was born on November 18, 1939, in Painesville, Ohio. His parents and sisters Sandra and Joan relocated to Trout Creek. In June 1958 Helsius graduated from Trout Creek High School as the class salutatorian.

The profile revealed he was active in sports, in particular with basketball. In addition, he held several class offices.

After graduation, with an interest in farming, Helsius entered the profession. After over a year, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy on September 10, 1959.

Helsius entered basic training at the Great Lakes Illinois Naval Training Center. After basic training he volunteered for submarine duty. He graduated from the U.S. Navy Submarine School in New London, Connecticut. After graduating from the submarine school, he was selected to receive advance training at Windsor Locks, Connecticut for nuclear powered submarines.

On November 9, 1961, Helsius was assigned duty onboard the USS Thresher (SSN 593). The submarine was commissioned to duty that prior August.

Helsius was one of the 129 who perished on board the USS Thresher on April 10, 1963.

Accounts from 1963 stated he was survived by his parents, both sisters, and paternal grandmother, Helia Helsius, also of Trout Creek.