2023ObituariesCalvin James Helmer

December 9, 1936 ~ April 5, 2023

Calvin James Helmer passed away on Wednesday, April 5, 2023 at the age of 86. He was a native of New Orleans, grew up in the Irish Channel and graduated from Redemptorist High School in 1955. He was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army and later served as a civilian employee with the U.S. Navy, USDA and Commodity Credit. Calvin was a Chalmette resident in St. Bernard Parish until Hurricane Katrina, after which they eventually settled in Denham Springs.

Calvin is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Gail Therio Helmer, son, Phil Helmer and his wife Jacquelyn, step-granddaughter, Maya, his sister Cecilia Matherne, and many beloved cousins, in-laws, nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. He was preceded by his parents William and Cecilia Helmer and his brother, Bill Helmer.

A devout Catholic, Calvin was an altar server until his mid-20s, including many years at Our Lady of Good Counsel in New Orleans. After moving to Denham Springs, he was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, where he and Gail had several great friends.

Calvin frequently said his life’s greatest gift was his birthday present on December 9, 1975 when God chose him and Gail to be parents to their son, Philip, who was born on his birthday. While his many years of working as a computer operator were well spent, the official job titles he was most proud to hold were (in no particular order): “Gail’s Husband,” “Phil’s Dad,” “Pa” and “Red.”

Calvin Helmer was a good Louisiana man and his passing is a great loss to all who were blessed enough to know and love him.

Per his request, there will be no formal funeral. In lieu of flowers, donations to help defray the overwhelming expenses of five months of Phil and Jacquelyn’s travel and living in both California and Louisiana are absolutely appreciated. (Venmo to @Phil-Helmer or by mail to Phil Helmer, 8470 Tommy Drive, San Diego, CA 92119)