Carl Edward Hellmers, Jr. passed away peacefully on August 20, 2024, at the age of 89, surrounded by his family and loved ones. He was born on December 22, 1934, and was a member of the first graduating class of De La Salle High School. After graduating from Loyola University of New Orleans, he became a professional musician and long-time music educator.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Yvonne Mateu Hellmers, and is survived by his five children, Keith (Carla), Kathy, Kim, Chip (Stephanie), and Kendall (Heather), 12 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren, along with his sister, Eva Earls, and brother, George Hellmers.
He spent more than 60 years as an educator in the Jefferson Parish school system and the Archdiocese of New Orleans. As the band director at Grace King High School for nearly 40 years, he was well known for his quick wit, humor, and unique ability to encourage great performances from his high school groups. Over the years, his kindness and genuine love of music inspired thousands of high school students and student teachers many of whom have since gone on to play music professionally throughout the world or teach at the collegiate level. Many of his children and grandchildren shared in his love of music, and he encouraged their talents as well.
He was deeply devoted to his late wife, Yvonne, and they were active members of St. Catherine of Siena Parish for over 60 years. Together they started the St. Catherine’s Family Life Ministry. He served as the Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus and was active as a member of the St. Vincent DePaul Society, the parish choir, and the money counting teams. With a strong faith and a commitment to service to the church, he was a grateful recipient of the Order of St. Louis Medallion of the Archdiocese of New Orleans. He was the music director for the annual St. Rosalie procession in Kenner for over 40 years. He was also the President of the Lakeside Lions Club and received the prestigious Melvin Jones award for exceptional service.
Always up for a good old fashioned and a Bears’ roast beef po-boy, his greatest love in the later years was spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren telling stories, listening to music, and playing games.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Funeral Mass at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, 105 Bonnabel Blvd. in Metairie, on Saturday, August 24, 2024 at 1:00PM. A visitation will be held at the church beginning at 11:00AM. The interment will follow the Mass in Metairie Cemetery. A reception will follow the interment at the Lakeside Lions Club home, 3239 Roman St. in Metairie.
To view and sign the online guest book, please visit www.lakelawnmetairie.com
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