Obituary of Gerald Helzer

Gerald (Jerry) Frederick Helzer passed away on October 29th, 2015 at Peppi's House (TMC Hospice) in Tucson, AZ at the age of 67. Jerry is predeceased by his mother Gladys Wilson, whom he loved so dearly. He is survived by his loving wife Diana (Ellis)Helzer of 23 years. Their love for each other was perfectly fitting for a Valentine's Day wedding. Jerry is lovingly remembered by his father Frederick (Jerry) Gerald Peltier. His daughters Ramie (Steven) Gibbs and Amanda Ellis-Helzer, both of Tucson, AZ and son Matthew Davis also of Tucson. His grandchildren, Brandon Gibbs, Kaylie Gibbs, Trevyn Gibbs, Anson Davis and Brice Davis, all of Tucson. His brothers Jim (Laura) Wilson and John (Lisa) Wilson of Michigan and sisters Roxanne Kiernicki and Darlene DeRocco, also from Michigan. In addition to many nieces and nephews, Jerry also had many friends and made new friends with anyone he met. This was more than evident with the outpouring of love and support to the family during his last days. Jerry was born in Mt. Clements, MI on August 1st, 1948. He was raised in Sterling Heights and later moved to Vail, AZ. He graduated from Utica High School in 1967. Jerry worked in the construction field his entire life. He founded and ran his own company “Hooey Company Framing Contractors” in Tucson, AZ. He later took a supervisory position with Sunrise Carpentry in booming Las Vegas, NV. He worked for Sunrise Carpentry for approximately 15 years before retiring and returning to Tucson. Jerry enjoyed many things, but spending time with his family and visiting was his favorite. He was never short on words to say or advice to give. He was an avid basketball fan and loved watching his Arizona Wildcats. He was very handy when it came to household projects and could always be counted on to help someone in need of his experience. Jerry was loved and respected by everyone he came in contact with. What he loved more than anything was being at home on his ranch in the mountains. Jerry made a point to learn as much about someone as he possibly could. He was a great conversationalist and showed genuine interest in everyone he came in contact with. Jerry’s stories, sarcasm, singing sentences, nicknames he gave people and advice will be missed by many. The family will hold a celebration of life, which with be held on Sunday, November 8th for all his family and friends. It will be held in Sierra Morado Clubhouse beginning at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Arizona Oncology Foundation and Peppi's House (TMC Hospice)