Sidney Helder

Sidney “Sid” J Helder, 93, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on November 14, 2025. A man whose life radiated the faith he cherished, Sid lived out the Fruit of the Spirit in all he did: His love for his family was steady and deep; his joyful demeanor uplifted everyone around him; and his peace flowed from an unwavering confidence in Whose he was. A devoted husband, patient father, kind and respected boss, business owner known for his goodness, and a gentle grandfather, Sid consistently modeled self-control and grace.

Sid’s warm smile was contagious, and his genuine friendliness drew people in wherever he went. As one nephew beautifully expressed, “He was my measure of love and grace in a man. His example inspires me to be a better person; my uncle with the brightest eyes, the kindest voice, and the warmest heart.”

Music was one of Sid’s lifelong passions. In high school he and his friends formed a barbershop quartet that would endure for more than 75 years, fondly known as the Extension Chords. His talent and love for singing also led him to perform with the gospel group, The Sounds of True Freedom, and delighted local audiences through his roles in The Music Man with the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre.

Sid was proud to serve during the Korean Conflict. Drafted into the U.S. Army, he was assigned to Company D, 3rd Platoon, 3rd Armored Division out of Fort Knox, Kentucky, and later deployed to Hanau, Germany, as part of the 7743 ESCO (Engineer Supply Control Company). While overseas, he founded a male chorus known as the ESCO Choraliers. Through music, Sid not only brought joy to fellow soldiers and local communities but also achieved remarkable success in chorus competitions.

A printer by trade, Sid joined Franklin Press—a company founded by his father, Sieger—early in his working life. He spent more than four decades working side by side with his brother, Dee, establishing a legacy of integrity and craftsmanship. In time, Sid was joined in the family business by his sons, Vic and Kevin, a source of tremendous pride and fulfillment.

Sid’s life was a testament to quiet strength, steadfast faith, and a heart devoted to serving others. He leaves behind a legacy that will continue in the lives of all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Jean Betten Helder. Sid will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 19 years, Patricia Helder; children, Vern and Kim Helder, Vic and Dori Helder, Jeff and Deb Helder, Jill Kamp, Kevin and Lynne Helder; grandchildren, Eric Helder, Colin and Sarah Helder, Bryan Helder, Kyle and Shelby Helder, Chad and Christina Helder, Sydney Helder and fiancé, Matt Heywood, Riley Helder, Laney Kamp, Quinten Kamp, Brooke Helder and fiancé, Kyle Kenyon, Courtlyn and Khalil Paule; two great-grandchildren; stepdaughter, Kelley Dunkelberg and Philip Miscimarra; step grandchildren, Michael Dunkelberg, Lara Dunkelberg, Ian and Lynsey Grady, Connor and Jacqui Grady; one step great-grandchild; sister, Elsie Cornelius; sisters-in-law, Judy Helder, Marlene Betten Van Dyk, Verna Betten; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, December 12, at Calvary Church, 707 E. Beltline NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525 (please use chapel entrance C), with Pastor Don Hancock officiating. The burial will take place at Rest Lawn Memorial Park. Relatives and friends may visit with the family on Thursday, December 11, from 5-8 p.m. at MKD Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW. and on Friday from 10-10:45 a.m. at the church prior to the service. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to All Belong, AnchorPoint Christian School, or The Potter’s House.