Catherine Eleanor Helmer

(1923-2014)

Catherine Eleanor (Grady) Helmer passed away in her home peacefully surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Indianapolis, IN on September 27, 1923 to Daniel and Winifred (Surber) Grady. Catherine was a life long University of Notre Dame football fan. She started listening to the games at the age of five. She was in the first graduating class at St. Joan of Arc grade school and a graduate of the St. Agnes Academy High School class of 1941. She contributed to the Meridian Kessler community throughout her life. Catherine had many strong opinions about social and political issues. A number of her editorial comments were published in the Indianapolis Star newspaper. Catherine was married to George J. Helmer Sr. in 1945 and enjoyed 38 years together until his passing. Catherine dedicated her life to raising her eleven children and is survived by Cathy Fuelling (Jerry) Zionsville, IN.; Mary Lou McGaha Ft. Lauderdale, FL; David Helmer Harwich, MA; Mark Helmer Indianapolis, IN; Julie Southwick (Bill) Chatham, MA; Sarah Helmer Indianapolis, IN; Stephen Helmer (Lynne) Columbus, OH; Caroline Crawford (Charles) Indianapolis, IN; Barbara Easley, Absarokee, MT. Catherine adored her 13 grand children (Matthew, Gretchen, Daniel, John, Katie, Mark, Sarah, Emilie, Brian, Kyle, Erin Joe, George and Anna) and 3 great grand children (Jaden, Calen and Brian) and many beloved nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband George J. Helmer Sr., sons George J. Helmer Jr., Joseph E. Helmer, son-in-law Larry McGaha and sisters Marianne (Grady) Butler, and Betty Jo (Grady) Schneider.

Calling hours will be Tuesday, January 14th at Feeney Hornak Mortuary, 2126 East 71st Street, Indianapolis, IN 46220 from 4:00-8:00 pm. A memorial service and celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, January 15th at the St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 500 East 42nd Street, Indianapolis, IN 46205 at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the charity of your choice. . Condolences may be offered at www.feeneyhornakkeystone.com