Barry J. Helms

Barry John Helms, age 67 of Appleton, was called home on Thursday, September 18, 2014. Barry was born June 10, 1947 in Appleton, son of the late Harold and Marion (Runge) Helms. He was a 1965 graduate of Appleton High School, and married the love of his life, Jo Jacquot, on August 10, 1974. They recently celebrated forty wonderful years together. His greatest joys in life were his wife Jo, and his many furry “kids”.

Barry was an avid stock car racing fan, and enjoyed racing his own stock car with the Fox River Racing Club for many years. He also enjoyed various occupations throughout his life, including Schmidt Oil, Asplundh Tree Expert Company, Lamers and Kobussen Bus Lines, and finally at LaSalle Clinic / Affinity Health Systems. He retired in 1999, due to ill health.

Barry had a keen sense of humor, and loved to improvise the lyrics of many songs. He was known to be very spunky, which helped him as he faced his many health challenges.

Barry is survived by his loving wife: Jo Helms of Appleton; his brother: Jeff (Pat) Helms of Appleton; a sister-in-law: Linda (Jack) Arter of Appleton; a niece: Kerry (Dennis) Bielke of Green Bay; his nephews: Jim Gresens and his special friend Lisa of Kimberly, Cory (Stacie) Schlafer of Appleton; Tony Helms of Appleton; and Erik Schlafer of Appleton; his great-nieces: Marissa, Brielle, Breanna, and Emma; and his great-nephews: Riley, Jonathan, Zach, and Collin. He was preceded in death by his parents Harold and Marion Helms; his in-laws: John and Barbara Jacquot; and several aunts and uncles.

A funeral service for Barry will held at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, September 23, 2014 at the Wichmann Funeral Home, 537 N. Superior Street in Appleton, with Rev. Jane Anderson officiating. Interment will follow at Highland Memorial Park. Family and friends are invited to gather at the funeral home on Tuesday from 1:00 PM on Tuesday until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Grizz & Friends Companion Animal Cancer Fund at the UWSVM in Madison, or the Fox Valley Humane Association in Appleton.

The family would like to offer sincere thanks to all of the doctors, nurses, and caregivers who have helped Barry through this medical journey. This includes the UW Hospital in Madison, St. Elizabeth Hospital, Fox Valley Hematology and Oncology, Tracy from VNA and Phil from ThedaCare at Home for their compassion, and Gold Cross Ambulance for their medical expertise. Your kindness and care will never be forgotten. Most deeply, thank you to Patti, Linda, and Kerry for the love, support and help during these difficult days. Your selflessness will always be remembered.

My dear husband, you are, and always will be, the love of my life. You were always so brave and strong and I am so proud to be your wife. I know that we will be together one day, but it is now time for you to rest until that time. We will miss you, please continue to watch over us from above. – Jo and Tundra

Barry, we will miss your wisecracks and funny stories. We know you will keep cheering for your favorite NASCAR driver. Love, Jack and Linda

Uncle Barry, I've always loved being your “Rugrat”! I will miss your sassy self. Love, Rugrat (Kerry)

Dear Uncle Barry, I know you are now at peace and no longer in pain. I will remember the good times and laughter we all had and cherish those moments forever. Love, Jim