Gary Wayne Helms, 67 died April 17, 2023, in Topeka, KS.  He was born on August 11, 1955, in Washington, KS, the son of Edgar and Betty (Meier) Helms.  Gary grew up in rural Linn.  He attended Immanuel Lutheran Grade School and was a Class of 1973 graduate of Linn High School where he participated in track and basketball.  Gary had a specific love and talent for music and played the trumpet for most of his life, playing for church services and in city bands.   After high school, he attended Concordia College in Seward, NE.  Following college, he found other talents in the construction industry, specifically fine woodworking, and cabinetry.  He worked on many projects in NE Kansas but one of his favorites was the KSU Alumni Center in Manhattan.  In September 1979, Gary married Annette Beckman.  To this union were born two sons, Scott and Kevin.  In 1988, Gary moved his family to Clay Center.  Gary and Annette later divorced.  He was a former member of Immanuel Lutheran Church and was currently a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church.  Gary was proud of his grandchildren and enjoyed spending time outdoors after his retirement.  He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, and a sister.

Survivors:

Son: Scott Helms and girlfriend Amber of Manhattan, KS

Son: Kevin Helms and wife Chelsie of Clay Center, KS

2 Grandchildren

Funeral Services: 10:30 AM Wednesday, April 26, 2023, at the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Clay Center, KS

Minister: Pastor Paul Tessaro

Burial: 2 PM Wednesday, April 26 at Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery, rural Linn, KS

Visitation: 3-7 PM Tuesday, April 25, 2023, at Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral Home

Memorials:  Clay County Hospital Foundation c/o the funeral home