John Helm

John M. Helm, age 91, of Sioux City, passed away Thursday, December 31, 2015, at Sunrise Care Center in Sioux City. Memorial services will be held at 7:00 P.M. on Monday, January 4, 2016, at Nelson Berger Northside Chapel, where the family will be present from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. Online condolences may be given at www.meyerbroschapels.com.

John was born June 7, 1924 to John and Mae Helm in Hinton, Iowa where he lived throughout his life. John attended Liberty Consolidated School most of his school career and graduated from Hinton High School where he played basketball. His basketball career took him to Morningside College, but was cut short when he returned to support the management of the family farm. Being a Morningside supporter was always important and he followed many teams and players through the years.

He married Blanche Williamson on August 24, 1946, and took over the family farm operation. They were married for 56 years. During that time they raised two children, daughter Jill and son Jeff. He would eventually build a cow/calf herd along with the farm grain operation. John loved to travel whether it was a Sunday drive through the countryside or a trip to the Southwest of which there were many.

Throughout John’s life he continued to play basketball in the Siouxland area on semi-pro teams sponsored by Johnson Jukes, Old Home Bread, and other area businesses. In the summer he would race stock cars. All through his life, he was an avid duck and goose hunter and also tried his hand at fishing. During good weather you might have seen John and Blanche riding their Honda Gold Wing motorcycle for a leisurely drive or a long trip to places like Colorado or the Southwest. 

There are many happy memories that will always be cherished. He is survived by his sisters, Lois of Denver, CO, and Rhea of Redondo Beach, CA; his children Jill (Dave Sparks), Jeff, step grandchildren Amy (Nick) Revak and Jonathan (Carol) Sparks, step-great grandchildren, Hannah, Jaden, Ellie, and John. He was preceded in death by his wife, Blanche, and his parents, John and Mae; brother-in-law Bob Hansen; and sister-in-law, Virginia Williamson.