James H. Helmer, age 38, of Beaver Dam, ended his life on Wednesday, May 25, 2016 because he couldn’t withstand the pain of addiction any longer.
The memorial gathering will be at Koepsell-Murray Funeral Home in Beaver Dam on Thursday, June 2, 2016 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.
James Howard Helmer was born on June 14, 1977 to Michael and Gretchen (Bendix) Helmer. He attended Beaver Dam High School and was a 1995 graduate. James went on to PC Pro School and earned a certificate in IT. He was a master at so many things and had many titles which included a welder, painter, quality control inspector, racecar driver-“Hamburger Helmer”, and mentor. He drove car #7 at the Jefferson Speedway and won numerous trophies and a Track Championship. He had a contagious smile and could always make you laugh. James started using prescription pain medication and became addicted. He turned to heroin to try to make himself feel better because the pain of withdrawal was so sickening. James lost everything in order to support his addiction. Heroin made him give up life as a father, son, and brother and made him believe that it could make him feel normal. Heroin was more powerful than words a mother could say to her dying son; more powerful than a five year old boy could say to his dying dad. It is strong but it can be beat. Don’t wait until tomorrow. Fight today. Please visit StopHeroinNow.org and see what you can do to help end this growing disease.
James will be missed by his son, Mason of Mayville; mother, Gretchen Gallenbeck (Dan Respalje) of Markesan; father, Michael (Tracy) Helmer of Neenah; sisters, Chandel (Dan) Bingen of Taycheedah, and Heather (Todd) Vande Kolk of Waupun; niece and nephews, Tyler Wendt, Cody Wendt, Calista Muraski, Gavin Bingen, and Brady Bingen; great nephew, Kayden Wendt; maternal grandpa, Gene (Susan) Bendix of Arizona; countless number of friends and other relatives. He was preceded in death by his step dad, Arnold Gallenbeck, Jr.; paternal grandparents, and maternal grandma.
If desired, memorials to the family would be appreciated.
The Koepsell-Murray Funeral Home in Beaver Dam is caring for the family. To leave online condolences, or for directions and other information, please visit our website at www.KoepsellFH.com
