Willard W. Helm

Willard was the beloved son of the late Will and Hazel Helm; loving husband of 72 years to Jane Helm (nee: Ward); devoted father of Gary Helm and Debbie (Dave) Dierzbicki; adoring grandfather of Bryan (Abby) Otto, Casey Otto, Nicholas (Dovie) Helm, and Samantha (Dan) Redmond; cherished great grandfather of Rayann Otto, Holden Otto, Brennan Otto, and Lorelai Otto; dear brother of the late Vernon Helm; and dear uncle of Ronnie Helm. Willard is also survived by many extended family members and numerous friends.

Willard proudly served in the US Navy for over 3 years during World War II. After his military service, he went to work for McDonnell Aircraft/McDonnell Douglas and he continued to work there for more than 35 years before he retired. He was a lifetime member of VFW Post 3944 in Overland; an active member of the McDonnell Douglas/Boeing Sages Retirees Club; and a long-time member of Arlington United Methodist Church. When he wasn’t working, Willard enjoyed fishing, hunting, and travelling with family. He also felt that it was his duty to always be willing to offer a helping hand to his friends. Whenever someone needed to get something done, Willard & Jane would be right there ready to help. Most importantly, Willard’s passion and his gift was his highly skilled woodworking. He was a master woodworker who created the most beautiful and unique pieces of furniture. Willard was a hard-working, loving family man with a very outgoing and friendly personality (he never met a stranger). He will truly be missed by all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Willard’s name to Arlington United Methodist Church.