DUANE J. HELMS

Duane John Helms (Born Dwaine John Holst) passed away on Sunday, March 21, 2021 at Crossroads Senior Living at the age of 92. Duane was born August 13, 1928 in Elwood, Nebraska. He graduated from Arapahoe High School in 1946 and continued to work on the family farm until he was inducted into the U. S. Army on September 10, 1951. Duane served in the Korean War and was released from active military service on June 19, 1953 and was transferred to ERC for an additional 8 years. He is the recipient of the Korean Service Medal, Bronze Service Star, Combat Infantry Badge, United States Service Medal and Overseas Bar. Duane moved to Denver with his family and took a job with Public Service and later retired from Fort St. Vrain Nuclear Plant as a Nuclear Plant Operator. He opened Jolly Jack’s Liquors and sold the business in 1985.

Duane was preceded by his Parents; Bertha Brauner Helms, Karl (Charlie) F. Helms and John Frednet Holst and his two sisters; Darlene Schultz and Deloris Holst. Duane is survived by his three Children: Cynthia K. Rome (Tom), Teresa L. Woodward (Steve), and Steven D. Helms (Toni). Duane is survived by his six Grandchildren: Emily Rome, Justin Rome, Christopher Clements (Brenda), Brittany Martson (Levi), Austin Helms and Tyler Helms. He is also survived by three Great-Grandchildren: Lucas Helms, Colton Clements, and Caden Clements. Special recognition to the care givers and heroes at Crossroads Senior Living and Dignity Hospice. They truly loved Duane and took great care of him up to the final moment of his life. We are eternally grateful for you.

Sgt. Duane John Helms was interred at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver, Colorado and there was a military service on Thursday, July 22, 2021 at 11:30 a.m. Following the ceremony, the family gathered for a celebration of life at Hideaway Steakhouse in Westminster, CO 80234. Though gone from this world, he will never be forgotten by those of us who knew him and loved him. He will be missed!