Richard Lee Helm, 90, passed away on April 5, 2024, with his wife of 65 years, Virginia, at his side. Richard was born on May 22, 1933, in Marshalltown, Iowa, the youngest of four boys to parents Earl and Reva Helm. The family later moved to Owasso where he met and married Virginia Tilman in 1958. Richard also joined the Navy, where he traveled across the globe making many memories he would then share with us over the years.
Richard and Virginia were members of St. Henry Catholic Church in Owasso. Richard was on the Owasso School Board and held various city roles, including a member of the Board of Adjustment. He also volunteered as a certified diver for the Corp of Engineers.
Richard worked at American Airlines and later at Bioscope Mfg. making educational and oil exploration microscopes and blackboxes. He later worked as a machinist before retiring.
During retirement, Richard volunteered at the Tulsa Air and Space Museum. He was an avid R/C model airplane builder; some of his planes are still displayed in the museum.
Richard is survived by his wife Virginia and sons Paul of Collinsville and Troy of Oolagah. Richard and Virginia have seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parent, Earl and Reva, and daughter, Bonnie (Helm) Rauh of Owasso.
