Russell Helmer Jr.

Age 91, of Mt. Morris, died Wednesday, February 14, 2018, at Masonic Pathways in Alma, Michigan. The funeral celebrating Russell’s life will take place 11:00 am Monday, February 19, 2018, at Martin Funeral, Cremation & Tribute Services in Mt. Morris. Pastor Karen Williams will officiate with burial to follow in Flint Memorial Park. The family will be present to receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday from 2:00 pm until 8:00 pm and again on Monday from 10:00 am until the time of service at 11:00 am. On Sunday evening, a Masonic Memorial Service will take place at 7:00 pm, conducted under the auspices of the Fellowship Lodge #236, F. & A. M. In lieu of flowers, please direct memorial contributions to Shriners Hospitals For Children or the Thetford United Methodist Church. Envelopes are available at the funeral home. Russell was born August 1, 1926, in Flint, Michigan, the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Russell and Vera (Empy) Helmer, Sr. He graduated from Utley High School with the class of 1944. Russell married the love of his life, Beverly Elise Hart on January 24, 1948. Sadly, she preceded him in death on April 14, 2009. Russell proudly served his country in the United States Army Air Corp from 1944 to 1946. He worked for GMI for 25 years as a Lab Technician. Russell was a member of the Flint Mason Fellowship #236, Order of the Eastern Stars Flint Chapter #138, Elf Khurfeh Shriners, and Shriner Clown Unit. In his free time, he enjoyed camping and taking part in the National Camping Traveling club and spending time golfing and bowling. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Left to cherish his memory: two sons, Daniel Helmer and Michael and wife Janet Helmer, grandchildren; Ryan and wife Andrea Helmer, Jeffrey and wife April Helmer, Shawn Helmer, Jamie and husband Scott Hoffman, Zachary Helmer and fiance Brittany Ciullo; several great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Beverly; parents; daughter-in-law Patricia; great-grandson, Andrew Helmer; 2 brothers and 2 sisters-in-law.