Christopher J. Helm

Christopher J. Helm, (age 30) entered into rest on May 19, 2008 at his home in Littleton, Colo., where he had resided for the past 6 months with his fiancée, Tina. Chris was born in Ronan, Mont., on May 23, 1977 to parents Richard and Donna Helm.

He attended two years of high school in Polson, Mont., and graduated from Plains High School, in 1995.  Chris was a Gulf War Veteran, serving in the US Navy during the 1st Gulf War. He was a Petty Officer 2nd Class and served as a communications and fiber optic systems specialist. 

Chris worked for DRS Technology in Polson, where he designed and tested circuit boards for missile and satellite systems, before moving to Colorado.  Christopher loved anything outdoors; hunting, fishing, skiing, and backpacking.  He also enjoyed reading, music, cooking, model projects and helping others.  He was a member of the DAV and VFW. 

Christopher is survived by his parents, Richard and Donna Helm of Yuma, Ariz.; fiancée, Tina Perez of Littleton, Colo.; sister, Jayne Devlin of Polson, Mont.; brothers, Michael Helm of Tacoma, Wash., Kurt Helm of Jim Thorpe, Pa., R. Kent (Susan) Helm of Forest Grove, Ore., John Helm of Vancouver, Wash., Scott (Melinda) Elder of Houston, Tex., Steven (Victoria) Elder of Tacoma, Wash., Shawn (Katherine) Elder of Corinth, Tex., and Philip Helm of Portland, Ore.; maternal grandparents, Margaret and Cliff Staton of Spokane, Wash.; and numerous maternal aunts and uncles.  Christopher was a wonderful son, brother, companion, and countryman and he will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.   The family has requested memorials be sent to the Hutton Settlement Scholarship Fund 9907 E. Wellesley Ave. Spokane, WA 99206 or to the Disabled American Veterans  c/o Spokane Veterans Honor Guard 1114 W. Knox Spokane, WA 99205.  A memorial service with military honors was held on Saturday, June 7, 2008 at Riplinger Funeral Home in Spokane, Wash.