Dorothy Helm

(1922 - 2006)

Dorothy M. Helm of Petersburg died at 6:45 p.m. Wednesday, July 5, 2006 at Memorial Medical Center, age 84.  She was born February 5, 1922 in Quincy, Il daughter of Harry A. and Eva Duke Perkins.

     She married William M. Helm in 1945.  He died in 1991.  Her parents and a brother, Harry Lee Perkins, also precede her in death.

     She attended Athens schools, graduating in 1939, and then received her Bachelor of Education degree in 1943 from Western Illinois University.  She was a teacher at Stockton and Arenzville High Schools. Mrs. Helm was formerly employed at Memorial Medical Center and Horace Mann Company.  She retired from the Bureau of Disability Determination Services, Department of Human Services.  She had been named supervisor of the year prior to her retirement.  She was a member of the Petersburg First Christian Church Disciples of Christ, Petersburg Woman’s Club, Menard County Home Extension, Shambolee Women’s Golf Association and Illinois Women’s Golf Association.  She had been on the board of directors of Shambolee, serving as secretary.  She was also a member of the Retired State Employees Association.  Mrs. Helm was an avid golfer, participating in many local and state competitions.  She was also a member of the Menard County Historical Society.

     Survivors: daughter, Le-Ann (husband William) Connor, Springfield; son, William D. Helm, Athens; grandsons, Brian (wife Stephanie) Connor and Terry Conner, both of Springfield; great grandchildren, Braden, Kiersten, and Robbie Connor of Springfield; nephews Terry Perkins, Mahomet and Greg Perkins, Champaign; cousins in Athens, Il, California and Arizona; and her best friend, Glenn Rittenhouse, Petersburg.

     Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. till the time of services at 11 a.m., Saturday July 8, 2006 at the Petersburg First Christian Church, Disciples of Christ, with Rev. Wayne Meyer officiating.  Cremation rites will be accorded following the services.  Memorials may be made to the Petersburg First Christian Church, Disciples of Christ.  Hurley Funeral Home of Petersburg is in charge of arrangements.