Robert Walter Helms Jr.

1945 - 2023

PHILO - Robert Walter Helms Jr. ("Bob") passed away peacefully at Carle Foundation Hospital at 9:26 a.m. Feb. 3, 2023, with his wife at his side.

Bob was born on March 25, 1945, in Coatesville, Pa., to Doris (Edgar) and Robert Walter Helms Sr.

Bob graduated high school in 1963, and then enlisted in the Air Force.

He had four children, Robert Allen Helms (Mattoon), Kenneth Wayne Helms (Canton, Ga.), Kelly Lee Helms (Mattoon), Deanna Lynn East (Mattoon). He was blessed with eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren that he truly loved.

Bob married the love of his life, Susan Hanners in 1986. Together they shared a life filled with love and family. His many interests include: Illini basketball, Cardinals, golf and bowling. Bob was a member of the Champaign-Urbana Bowling Hall of Fame and bowled 13 perfect games where two of these games were bowled back-to-back!

Bob and his family enjoyed making many memories at their lake house at The Lake of the Ozarks. Fishing, boating and being near water was a pure enjoyment for him.

He was extremely involved and deeply loved his immediate family including his nieces and nephews, Angie Williams (Tolono), Kim Mercer (Tuscola) and Robert Hanners, Jr. (Dupont, Washington) and many great-nieces and -nephews.

As a member of Victory Church of Camargo, Bob was water baptized on April 11, 2021. He thoroughly enjoyed volunteering as a door greeter and you could see him worshiping while clapping his hands and dancing to the music every Sunday.

Bob was preceded in death by his mother, father and brother Steve.

Per Bob's wishes, there will be no formal services.  In lieu of flowers, take a child bowling.

Online condolences may be shared via hilligossshraderfh.com.