Donald Helm

Donald L. Helm, 87, of Decatur, IL, passed away at 5:27 a.m. Monday, April 1, 2013, at Decatur Rehabilitation Health Care Center. Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, April 5, at New Beginnings Church of God. Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Homes, Decatur, are assisting the family with the arrangements. Memorials may be made to New Beginnings Church of God. Donald was born April 18, 1925, in Decatur, IL, the son of Buford and Leona (Able) Helm. He married Edna Smith in Decatur. She preceded him in death in October 2000. Donald was a U.S. Navy veteran serving in WWII. He was a custodian for Decatur Public Schools for 12 years and previously worked at Meadow Gold Dairy for 33 years. Surviving are his sons Dennis (Erma) Chatham of Decatur, IL, and Richard Chatham of Bradenton, FL; grandchildren Kristie (Scott) Crawford, Pennie (Jeff) Rhodes, all of Decatur, Marie Chatham of Bradenton, FL, and Todd Chatham of Nashville, TN; 4 great-grandchildren; sisters Doris Liczkowski of Sarona, WI, Shirley (William) Cummins of Decatur, IL, and Loretta (William) Michael of Portage, IN. Donald was preceded in death by his parents, wife, son Curtis Chatham, and brother Buford "JR" The family would like to thank the staff at Decatur Rehabilitation Health Care Center, especially Dee Spencer for the loving care given to Donald. Condolences may be left to the family at www.brintlingerandearl.com. "
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