John Carl Helm, son of Carl and Francis Helm was born June 24, 1940, in Monroe, Wash. He had two siblings, James Helm of Alberta, Canada, and Michael Helm (deceased).
John married Jean Graham on June 23, 1967. They had two children, Carol Nakano (Marty) of Chehalis, Wash., and Michael Helm (deceased). He had five grandchildren, Dawn Nakano, Crystal Nakano, Jamie Turner (Blake), David Nakano (Alicia), and Cody Nakano (Maddie); and 13 great-grandchildren.
John attended the University of Washington and received his bachelor’s of science degree in forestry in 1963. After graduating from college, John served in the military in the 66th Engr Co (TOPO) (CORPS) TUSA and reached the rank of E4 from 1964-1966. John had a long successful 40-year career with Weyerhaeuser as a forester and retired in 2005. John also was a volunteer firefighter for 32 years with Lewis County Fire District 6.
John and Jean lived in Chehalis, Wash., and loved the outdoors. He enjoyed backpacking, cross-country skiing, being the chef at elk camp, traveling and reading. He was known for his great intelligence and his love of researching.
John was a quiet, sincere man that made a positive impact on anyone he met and loved to volunteer or serve his community. He served on many boards and would help anyone in need. He never shared about all his big accomplishments and was known for being humble. He had many lifelong friendships from his classmates in high school, college and co-workers or anyone he met. John touched many lives and will be greatly missed by his family and friends. He passed away July 12 and is now reunited with his wife, Jean, and their son Mike.
Funeral services will be held Friday Aug. 6, 2021. A viewing will be held at Sticklin Funeral Chapel from 10 to 11:30 a.m. with a memorial service to follow from noon to 1 p.m. Following the memorial service, a graveside service will take place at 1:30 p.m. at Claquato Cemetery. To conclude the service, there will be a reception at Newaukum Valley Grange in Napavine at 3 p.m.
