J. Raymond Helbert Ph.D.

Helbert, J. Raymond PhD J. Raymond (Ray) Helbert, PhD, 91, resident of Chicago, IL was born in Miles City, MT on August 4, 1918, grew up in Milwaukee, WI, and died peacefully in his Chicago home on January 19, 2010. Ray received his BS (cum laude) from St John's University, Collegeville, MN, 1947, his MS from Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, 1958, and his PhD in Biochemistry from Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 1963. Ray worked at Michael Reese Hospital and Medical Center, was an assistant professor at Northwestern University, and worked as the Manager of Microbiological Research and Research Administration and as the Supervisor of Bacteriology Research for the Miller Brewing Company in Milwaukee for 18 years until he retired. Among his many accomplishments were 78 presentations and publications to the science community and in scientific journals. He was an active member of many professional organizations, including the American Association for the Advancement of Science, the American Chemical Society, (a 50-year plus member), the American Society of Brewing Chemists, a Fellow of the American Institute of Chemists, and the American Statistical Association. Ray was also a member of the Sigma Xi Honor Society. He is listed in the American Men and Women of Science and in Who's Who in Technology Today. He was an active participant in Alverno College Assessment Program, Milwaukee, WI since its inception in 1974. Ray was an avid sailboat racer for many years with the Chicago Corinthian Yacht Club. His love of travel had taken him all over the world and included all seven continents. He sailed, scuba dived, climbed the Great Wall of China, witnessed seven total solar eclipses, and walked with the penguins in Antarctica. Ray loved music, was a patron of the arts, a Governing Member of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and a long time subscriber to the Lyric Opera of Chicago, among others. A connoisseur of wine, he won wine tasting competitions. A man of great character, generous of spirit, love, and affection, he was an inspiration to his friends and family as he lived his life with courage, determination, and with his love for God. Loved by all who know him, his was truly a life well spent. Ray had a great sense of humor and a great big smile for everyone he met. His beautiful blue eyes were always a twinkle. Ray was a true gentleman in the highest sense. He will be sorely missed. Ray Helbert was the beloved husband and best friend of his wife Mary Mako Helbert, the loving father of Gregory John (Cynthia Riley) Helbert, Canton MI, Helen Helbert, Wadsworth, IL, John (Donna Bonomini) Helbert, Naperville, IL, and Monica Mae Helbert, Libertyville, IL; the proud grandfather of Brian Helbert, Bradley Helbert, Cassandra Helbert, and Cara Helbert. His many wonderful nieces, nephews, and friends will miss him. His first wife, Bernice Cyganiak, preceded him in death. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, January 31, 2010, 3:00 PM at St. Pauls United Church of Christ, 2335 N. Orchard St., Chicago, IL 60614. In lieu of flowers, it is suggested that donations be made in Ray Helbert's memory to either the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, or the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Sign Guestbook at chicagotribune.com/obituaries.