Robert "Bob" L. Helms

Robert “Bob” L Helms

Robert “Bob” L. Helms 74, of Sycamore, IL passed away peacefully Tuesday, April 23, 2024, at his home, surrounded by his family and friends. He was born September 25, 1949, in Rochelle, IL and was the son of Lawrence and Helen (Gregory) Helms.

After graduating from Rochelle High School in 1967, Bob was drafted into the military. He served in the United States Marine Corps from April 2, 1969 to January 26, 1971, qualifying three times as a Marine Scout Sniper during the Vietnam War. After his honorable discharge, Bob was awarded The National Defense Service Medal, A Vietnam Service Medal with 1 Purple Heart, The Vietnam Campaign Medal w/ Device, The Navy Achievement Medal, a Rifle Expert Badge and a Combat Action Ribbon.

Bob earned his associate degree from Kishwaukee College. He was employed with Eagle Foods for over 27 years, ending as a manager before moving onto Jewel-Osco as an operating manager for 13 years. After retiring from the grocery industry, Bob worked at the DeKalb unemployment office as a case manager before retiring.

In 1989, Bob met the love of his life, Kim. They married in 1991 in DeKalb, joining their families together. He was a member of the V.F.W. of Rochelle, American Legion, and VietNow. He attended Trinity Lutheran Church in DeKalb. 

He is survived by; wife; Kimberly of Sycamore, children; Nathan (Lindsay) Helms of Holland, MI, Candace Lothson of DeKalb, Leo (Emilie) Lothson of Sycamore, and Brianne Helms of Sycamore. Grandchildren; Landon Lothson, Charlie Kaisher, Vincent Kaisher, Cora Lothson, and May Lothson. Sisters; Pamela Helms-Bauer of Rochelle, Nancy Shelton of Colorado, Jean (Steve) Helms-Finlayson of Colorado, Laura Bradford of Rochelle, sister in law, Roxanne (Bill) Hamilton of Varna, IL., and several nieces and nephews. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, and brother in law; Charles “Chuck” Bradford.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 27, 2024, at 12:00pm at Finch Funeral Home with burial immediately following with full military honors provided by the DeKalb American Legion Post #66 at Fairview Park Cemetery in DeKalb. Visitation will be held on Saturday, April 27, 2024, from 10:00am until the time of the service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to the family to be established at a later date. Arrangements were entrusted to Finch Funeral Home 310 Oak St. DeKalb, IL 60115 815-758-3841.