James R. “Jim” Helfer, 72, of Saint Charles, MO, born Sunday, January 15, 1950, in East Saint Louis, IL, passed away Sunday, July 24, 2022, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital West in Saint Louis, MO.
Jim married the love of his life, Kathy, on February 25, 1978 and they spent many wonderful years together. He worked as a Buyer for M E M C and retired in 2012. Earlier in his career he served in the Illinois National Guard. He was a member of United Methodist Church of the Shepherd, St. Charles, MO and enjoyed participating in the church’s charitable works. Jim had a passion for all things car related and loved going to car shows.
He was preceded in death by his:
- Son, Jeffrey Helfer
- Parents, Raymond A. and Dora Lee, nee Megown, Helfer
- Maternal grandparents, James and Anabel Megown
Surviving are his:
- Wife, Kathleen Helfer of St. Charles, MO
- Children:
- Katie Ann Helfer of Columbia, MO
- Victor “Vic” (Angie) Helfer of East Carondelet, IL
- Brother, Thomas Lee (Madelyn) Helfer of Elsberry, MO
- Grandchildren:
- Joe Marsh
- Taylor Helfer
- Great grandchild, Karter Helfer
- Many dear brother and sister-in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins & friends.
He will be truly missed
Memorials: Memorials may be made to Heifer International. www.heifer.org
Visitation: Visitation from 2:00 – 6:00 pm, Sunday, July 31, 2022 at Kurrus Funeral Home in Belleville, IL.
Funeral: Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am, Monday, August 1, 2022 at Kurrus Funeral Home, with Pastor Gina Brinkman officiating. Interment will follow at Lake View Memorial Gardens, Fairview Heights, IL.
5 Comments To "James R. “Jim” Helfer"
#1 Comment By Mary Ann Dames On July 29, 2022 @ 6:07 am
Kathy and family. So sorry to hear this. I worked with Jim at Lady Baltimore. Considered him and Tom as friends. Jim was one of my favorite drivers. May he rest in peace.
#2 Comment By Kat Schudel (Kathy Helfer) On July 30, 2022 @ 9:09 am
Aunt Kathy, Katie & family,
I am so so sorry for your loss, and what a great loss! I remember Uncle Jimmy as a really funny jokester that tried to act tough on the outside, but was a total softy on the inside. Always taking family in and taking care of them with you Kathy. I’m praying for y’all for peace and comfort. Love you!
#3 Comment By June Creasy On July 30, 2022 @ 7:36 pm
Kathy and family, I am so sorry to hear a bout Jim. It’s so hard to say Goodbye to a loved one. I am thinking about you and praying for you. Even though I had not seen Jim in several years, he was very dear to me. He was such a special part of mine and Mike’s early lives together and always fun to be with. I have such fond memories of him during the 1970’s from fast cars, motorcycles, to not so fast cars like his Bright Yellow VW Beetle, weekend BBQs, Carlyle Lake . . He was one of the “Good Guys” and will be sorely missed. RIP Jim and I’m sure you & Mike will find a Camaro and GTX to race in Heaven. Love, June
#4 Comment By Brenda Svec On July 30, 2022 @ 8:33 pm
Jim and Kathy were very important part of the kitchen committee at Church of the Shepherd. Also an important part of our church. He will be very missed. We send our love and prayers Kathy. Ron and Brenda Svec
#5 Comment By Dennis Geragosian On August 1, 2022 @ 8:15 am
Jim and I played football at East Side in high school. Tom was in my class and the brothers were too super friends to have. Sorry for your loss RIP Jim. I will say a prayer for you and your family Tom.