James Helsel

James Melvin Helsel, 86, of Ashville, Ohio, passed away Wednesday, February 18, 2015 at his home. He was born August 11, 1928 in New Holland, where he was raised and worked on the farm until he graduated high school. He served in the U.S. Army in Japan, and then fought in the Korean War earning a Bronze Star. He retired from the Army after 21 years, 6 months and 18 days. He went to work at DuPont for 20 years where he was known as "Sarge". Jim was preceded in death by his parents James and Ora (Roberts) Helsel; brothers, Donald (Mary), and Walter Helsel; sisters, Clara (George) Posey and Sara (Bob) Bennett. He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Dolores "Dee"; daughter, Wanda Sayre, and her children, Adam (Tonya), Kevin (Tammi), Kathleen (Chris), Amber, and step-children, Sam and Eddie; daughter, Diane Ulmschneider, and her children, Jessica (Michael), Andrea; son, Joseph Helsel, and his children, Chris (Ted), Joe, Kim (Kazim); son, James (Robyn) Helsel, and their son, Jeremy; daughter, Susan (Steve) Hardbarger, and their son, Travis, and step-children, Steve and Stacey; daughter, Barbara Kelley, and her children, Stephen, Matt and Heather; daughter, Linda (Rick) Roelecke, and their children, Mitchell and Ross; 15 great grandchildren and 15 step great grandchildren; brother, Gerald (Pat) Helsel, sister-in-law, Faye Helsel; and many nieces and nephews. Jim was a life member of Amvets Post #2256, American Legion Post #134 and V.F.W. Post #7941 of South Bloomfield where he served with the honor guard, and was a volunteer at the Pickaway Co. Senior Center. Jim loved babies-they always brought a smile to his face. He also loved writing little ditties for special occasions to friends and family. Jim also loved gardening, square and line dancing and clogging. Family will receive friends on Sunday February 22, 2015 from 2-5PM at Defenbaugh-Wise-Schoedinger Funeral Home, 151 E. Main St., Circleville, Ohio. Funeral Service will be held on Monday February 23, 2015 at 10am at the funeral home with Chaplin Jim Ferrell officiating. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Berger Hospice, 1170 N. Court St. Circleville, Ohio 43113, Hands for Disabled, 210 Lancaster Pike, Circleville, Ohio 43113 or Pickaway Senior Center, 2105 Chickasaw Dr., Circleville, Ohio 43113.