Jim Helsel

James Erwin Helsel was born February 23, 1952 in Cadillac, Michigan to Francis and Joan Helsel. In 1977, Jim moved to Houston, Texas where he met and married the love of his life, Cheryl. They remained happily married for 38 years. In 1980 they welcomed their first born son James Erwin Helsel, Jr., followed by the birth of Elizabeth Ann in 1986, and William Joseph in 1989. Jim was a family man. He was so proud of his family and he made sure they were aware of how much he loved them.

St. Bernadette Catholic Church was a big part of Jim's family life. Jim and Cheryl made sure their 3 children knew and loved Jesus as they did and made their holy sacraments as they lived their lives.

Jim started his career with Budweiser in 1982 and retired in 2011 after 29 years of service. Jim knew everything there ever was to know about beer and it was often the topic of conversations with people he would encounter. Jim worked hard to ensure the best life possible for his family. He developed many long term friendships with his co-workers that he deeply cherished and remained in contact with them after retiring.

After retirement, Jim and Cheryl welcomed their first granddaughter, Ella, in 2012. and the James Erwin Helsel III (L.J.) in 2013. "Grampy" became the apple of his grandbabies' eyes. He would spend many days and evenings looking after them and spoiling them to no end. Ella and L.J. were his pride and joy and his memory will live on in them forever.

Jim leaves behind to cherish his memories his wife Cheryl, children James, Elizabeth, and William, along with his daughter in law Jessie, and grandchildren, Ella and L.J. Also, his brothers Stan, Dennis, Kenny, and Mike, along with a host of in laws, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Visitation hours will be from 9:00am - 11:00am February 4, 2016 at Forest Park Lawndale Grand Chapel with a funeral service to start at 11:00am. Serving as pallbearers are Joey Matthews, Justin Matthews, Vance Clifton, Vance Clifton Jr., James Helsel Jr., Will Helsel, Bo Helsel, and Stevie Lareau.