Richard Alan Helm

It is with deep love and heavy hearts that we share the passing of Richard “Dickie” Alan Helm, a devoted husband, father, brother, coach and friend.

Rich passed away peacefully on October 13, 2025 at the age of 68.

Born in Wayne, New Jersey on June 25, 1957 to George Arthur Helm, Jr and Gladys Essig. Rich lived a life rooted in love, faith and compassion.

He was a man of complete dedication and love to his wife and son, to his brothers and sisters, and to his many friends who became family through the years. His loyalty ran deep, and his heart was steady and generous. Everything he did, he did with purpose, care and an unspoken devotion that touched everyone around him.

Rich spent his life uplifting other, whether through his career as a Franchise Broker, helping others establish and grow their own businesses with integrity and confidence. Known for his honesty, positivity and tireless work ethic, he was admired not only for his professional success, but for the genuine kindness behind every transaction.

A lifelong athlete, Rich completed four New York Marathons and a Triathlon. He was a Certified Personal Trainer and a beloved wrestling coach on both New Jersey and Tampa, Florida. Coaching children brought him immense joy. He loved teaching perseverance and character as much as athletic skill.

His students and fellow coaches will remember his encouragement, patience and that special blend of humor and wisdom he brought to every practice.

Rich was known for his quick wit and playful and sarcastic sense of humor that could make anyone laugh, even in serious moments. Behind that humor was a man of extraordinary discipline and precision. Rich was famously organized, every detail of his life reflected his care and order. Those around him often said that if Rich committed to something, it was already handled because he would always step up, lead the way, lead with calm confidence and make sure everything was as close to perfect as possible…And it was.

At home, Rich was a devoted husband, and father who found joy in the simplest pleasures…a strong cup of coffee, a walk on the beach and the perfect playlist. His favorite music was Kiss, Pink Floyd, Black Sabbath, Boston and the Eagles, a soundtrack that perfectly captured his energy and love for life. He also had a soft spot for his furry companion, “Fluffy” the guinea pig whose presence never failed to make him smile.

Rich was a loyal NY Yankee fan and a man with a youthful and adventurous soul. Health and wellness were not just his hobbies; they were a part of who he was. He often joked that if it were possible to work out in his sleep, he would have found a way.

Above all, Rich lived through faith, honesty and integrity. He loved god deeply and reflected that faith in his daily actions through kindness, humility and compassion.

Rich is survived by his loving wife Monica Alexandra (Rivas) Helm and his son Lance Helm, both of Tampa, Fl. His brothers Ronnie Lee Helm, George Arthur Helm, Joseph Fredrick Helm. His sisters JoAnn Ryan and Donna Rae Dattolo, and the many Nieces, Nephews, Extended family and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Rich was preceded in death by his parents, Gorge Arthur Helm Jr. and Gladys (Essig) Helm.

Rich’s legacy is one of love, laughter, order and unshakable strength. His presence made the world calmer, kinder and brighter. His humor will echo, his lessons will endure, and his love will remain in every heart he touched.

The family will gather on October 25, 2025, from 2-6pm at the Blount & Curry Life Event Center, 605 S. MacDill Ave, Tampa, Fl 33609, for a Celebration of Life beginning at 4pm.

With love and gratitude,

Monica and Lance