Mark Stephen Helmar

1948 - 2024

Mark Stephen Helmar

November 9, 1948 - May 10, 2024

Sacramento, California - Mark Stephen Helmar left us on May 10th, 2024, just as the sun appeared. He was a kind, gentle, intelligent man who left behind many memories. He was surrounded by his family when he passed.

Born in Columbus, Ohio on November 9th, 1948 to Mercedes and Albert Helmar, he was the first of seven children, always the devoted big brother. The family eventually settled in Rancho Cordova, California in 1960. Aspiring to become a Catholic priest, Mark enrolled at St. Pius X Seminary in nearby Galt in 1962. He was an outstanding student, excelling in history and literature, earning medals in Latin, teaching himself to play guitar and playing in the seminary band. It was at St. Pius that he met many of his lifelong friends and brothers. In 1966, one of them introduced him to Sharon Morse, whom he married in 1970. After graduating he went on to CSUS where he majored in anthropology and graduated with honors. He then began his more than 37 year career with the State of California where he advocated for health services for the elderly and underserved.

In 1976 the Helmars made their home Curtis Park. Mark was instrumental in the creation of the Sierra Curtis Neighborhood Association, tirelessly contributing however possible and serving as one of the organization's early presidents. As his children and community grew, he became involved in little league baseball, PTA's, and Newman Catholic Center. Mark was a dedicated blood donor, giving over 15 gallons during his life. He was quietly selfless and sought to share what helped him with those who needed help.

In retirement Mark and Sharon enjoyed their travels to Europe. Throughout their 57+ years together they traveled the United States, enjoying road trips with friends, vacationing with family, and viewing numerous museums and roadside attractions. He cherished his time watching his grandsons play baseball, spending time with friends and family, pruning the roses, playing pinochle and bridge and performing with his band Sidetracked. He enjoyed his life here and enriched countless lives of others.

He will be missed by Sharon (53 years), sons Jason (Elizabeth) and Jacob (Jessica), three precious grandsons Otto, Roscoe and Evangelista, as well as siblings Michele, Vicki, Michael, Gretchen, Melissa, John and his nieces, nephews, in-laws, extended family and many great friends.

A celebration of Mark's life will be held July 21st, 2024, at Sierra 2 Community Center. Contributions in his name can be made to Catholic Social Services and Habitat for Humanity.