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James Helsel Obituary

Helsel, James Earl. The family of James Earl Helsel celebrates with great love and respect his remarkable 92 year life span and announces his passing on October 22, 2008 in Boca Raton, Florida. Born on June 30, 1916 in Fort Wayne, Indiana, James was raised and educated in Chicago, IL. It was here that he met, married and embarked on a nearly 70 year journey of love and life with Fern Hazel Eisner. James was a WWII Navy active duty veteran who traveled extensively during his distinguished 35 year business career. He retired a regional Sales Manager with American Sisalkraft Corporation. Jim and Fern moved to Boca Raton, FL in 1974 where they were active community supporters, avid golfers and devoted members of their beloved United Methodist Church. James' living legacy includes his sister Mrs. Wilma Imig of Dallas, Texas, his eight great-grandchildren, six grandchildren, son Robert Helsel of Boulder, CO and daughter Marijean Pantas of Annapolis, MD. James' eldest son Jim Helsel is deceased. Until his passing James (Jim to all who knew and loved him) never forgot to send a birthday card or call with a kind word of encouragement. He will be remembered fondly for his unshakeable faith in God, his steadfast loyalty, and unending love of his departed wife Fern and his family.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Sun-Sentinel on Jan. 11, 2009.

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2 Entries

S. Ann Earon

January 5, 2010

I have many fond memories of the Helsel family, as Fern and Jim lived around the corner from us in Barrington, RI. They were dear friends to my parents and we spent many evenings with them sharing dinner and telling stories. Fern Helsel was a wonderful cook and Jim Helsel enjoyed food. I also have wonderful memories of Fern's father, who listened to baseball games sitting on their driveway. I walked by him on my way home from school and he always had time to chat. Fern and Jim will be missed, but their lives have been enriched by their children, Marijean and Bob and their grandchildren, who continue to carry on the Helsel tradition of kindness and friendship.

Jo McWilliams Dvareckas

January 4, 2010

Jim Helsel was the epitome of a gentlemen. How lucky our family was to live diagonally across the street from Fern, Jim, Marijean & Bobby (Jimmy was already on his own) growing up in Barrington, RI. They were best friends with my parents, Pat & Mac (Joe) McWilliams. When they moved across town and then to FLA their ties stayed strong. My parents continued to visit them for many years. I have many fond memories. My heart goes out to Marijean, Bob, and the other members of the Helsel clan.
With love+
Jo

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