It is with heavy hearts and tear-filled eyes that we share the passing of John Helwig—lovingly known to so many simply as “Big John” or “Big Wig.” As we sit with this unimaginable loss, we needed a moment to gather ourselves, because this one cuts deep.
John wasn’t just the name on the sign or the man behind the bar—he was the heartbeat of Milford. He was the thunderous laugh in the back room, the warmest welcome at the front door, the strong arm of support when someone needed a break, and the sharp wit that could turn a rough day around with one sentence.
He was larger than life—in spirit, in presence, and in heart.
John Helwig was the founding force behind Big Wigs Sports Bar, Helwig’s Café, and John Henry’s—each a cornerstone in the Milford community. But they were more than businesses. They were homes. Safe spaces. Neighborhood institutions. And that was because of him. John had a rare gift: he could bring people together across every line that usually divides us. At Big Wigs, you weren’t a stranger. You were family. And that was John’s doing.
From the very beginning, Big John believed in second chances, in rolling up your sleeves and doing the work, and in keeping it 100 no matter what. He poured that grit and love into every corner of these spaces. He wasn’t just a business owner—he was a builder of lives, a mentor, a cheerleader, a community man. And he did it all while staying true to who he was: bold, no-nonsense, hilarious, and real.
He had a signature style—Patriotic. Loud. Unapologetic. And when he walked into a room, you felt it.
In many ways, John Helwig was Milford. Ask any regular at Big Wigs and they’ll tell you—every wing served, every shot poured, every joke cracked across that bar carries his spirit. He created a space where memories were made, birthdays were celebrated, heartbreaks were mended, games were watched, and laughter never ran dry.
And now, as we face this loss, we do so with immense sorrow—but also with tremendous gratitude. Because we were lucky. Lucky to have known him, to have laughed with him, to have been loved by him Wake Services for John Helwig
Saturday, July 12th
4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Cody-White Funeral Home
107 Broad Street, Milford, CT
Big Wigs will remain open on Saturday from 11AM–2AM to celebrate the man, the myth, the legend. An after-party in John’s honor will follow the services. More details will be shared soon.
This isn’t goodbye. This is a salute. To a man who gave us everything he had, every single day.
So, we raise our glasses high and loud:
To Big John.
To the wings.
To the wisdom.
To the wild nights and warm hugs.
To the laughter.
To the legacy.
Rest easy, Big Wig. Your seat is saved, your stories live on, and your memory will never fade.
Long live the legend.