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John Helms Obituary
December 25, 1933 - January 22, 2021
Resident of Moraga, CA
John "Jack" Forsyth Helms passed away peacefully in Walnut Creek on January 22nd. He was born in Oakland on Christmas Day in 1933. After initially living in Piedmont, the family moved to Fresno where Jack graduated from Fresno High School. He received an Accounting degree from the University of Washington in Seattle, after which time he served three years as a United States Naval Officer. Upon returning to the Bay Area, he earned a Master of Business Administration degree from UC Berkeley's Haas Business School.
Jack married Julie Rapalje Caulkins on September 21, 1963. They moved to Moraga in 1973, where they raised two children, David and Laurie.
He worked in various information technology and financial positions, retiring from the corporate world in 1987. After his retirement, he and Julie studied Spanish and traveled extensively in Mexico and Central America. In addition, they visited various European countries and spent time at their cabin in Lake Tahoe.
One of the greatest gifts Jack shared with his family was his love of the outdoors. Backpacking and skiing were regular family activities. Jack was a 32-year member of the National Ski Patrol and former head of the Homewood Volunteer Ski Patrol. Jack enjoyed fly-fishing since his teen years, and was at his happiest when wading in a sparkling stream in the Sierras.
Jack was a longtime member and former president of the Diablo Valley Fly Fishermen, as well as a member of the Lafayette United Methodist Church. His greatest joy was his family, and he was a devoted and loving husband, father, and grandfather.
Jack is survived by his son David (Cheryl) Helms of Walnut Creek, his daughter Laurie (Peter) Maxwell of Santa Barbara, and five grandchildren: Kiersten, John, Holly, Michelle, and Sarah. He also leaves his sister Susan Vildosola of Fresno. He was recently predeceased by his beloved wife Julie.
The family will gather privately to celebrate his life. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be sent to Yosemite Conservancy.
View the online memorial for John "Jack" Forsyth Helms
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Helms
Sponsored by East Bay Times.
1 Entry
Janet Thompson
February 2, 2021
Dear David, Laurie, Susan, and grands,
I knew Jack and Julie from Lafayette Methodist Church. They joined and jumped right in, getting to know so many folks so easily. Please know they are remembered fondly.
May the peace of Christ bring you comfort,
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