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James Eric Helmer, age 71, of Jenison, Michigan, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, February 3, 2022 after a short illness. Jim enjoyed working at RM Trucking, and recently retired after 10 years of employment. He was a kind, warm-hearted man who loved life, loved his family, was a wonderful husband to his wife of 21 years, Kathy Lynne (Doxtater-Rillema) Helmer, and a #1 Grandpa. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leon and Dora Helmer and parents-in-law, Bob and Arlene Doxtater. Jim will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Kathy Helmer; sons, Jamie (Teresa) Helmer, Jason (Angela) Helmer, Joel (Andrea) Helmer; stepsons, Christopher (Sarah) Rillema, Jason (Courtney) Rillema, Russell (AnneMarie) Rillema, Scott (Becky) Rillema; his sister, Leona Konkle; brother, Gary (Laura Toth) Helmer; brother-in-law, Robert (Lori) Doxtater; 26 grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held at 11 am at Rosewood Reformed Church on Saturday, February 26, 2022 with Bill Zeilstra officiating. An hour of visitation will be held prior to the service at the church. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society or Tall Oaks Camp.