James F. Heldmann

It is with sadness we announce the passing of James F. Heldmann, 83, of Vernon. He passed away surrounded by his family on Sunday, April 6, 2025, following a brief illness. Jim attended Hillyer College majoring in engineering. After deciding that it wasn't for him, he went into sales before founding his own company, Heldmann Tool Supply, in East Hartford, which he successfully ran for over 20 years. Jim retired early to spend time and travel with his beloved wife and childhood sweetheart, Karen (Gulliksen), to whom he was married to for 62 wonderful years. His happiest times were spent with his cherished family. He was a humble man of honesty, generosity, kindness, and had a great sense of humor being respected by all. He leaves his grieving family; his wife, Karen; his children, James Jr., Janice O'Connell (Tracy), and Kristin Ruthen (Michael); his adored grandchildren, Tyler, Morgan, Madison & Kaedan O'Connell, and Joshua Ruthen; his great-grandchild, Meira; his sisters, Frances Beckerman and Joan Dooley; as well as many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brothers, George and Joseph; and a sister, Mary Hickey. Calling hours will be held on Monday, April 14, 2025, from 4-7 p.m. at the Samsel & Carmon Funeral Home, 419 Buckland Rd., South Windsor. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, April 15, beginning at 11 a.m. at Blessed Sacrament Parish – St. Bernard Church, 25 St. Bernard Terrace, Rockville. All guests are kindly asked to please go directly to the church. Burial will follow in Wapping Cemetery, South Windsor. In honor of Jim, please do an act of kindness to one another. To leave an online message of condolence for his family, please visit www.carmonfuneralhome.com. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James, please visit our floral store.