James Helmuth

James “Jim” Helmuth, 84, of Wisconsin Rapids, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2026, surrounded by family at Aspirus Wausau Hospital.

Born on September 27, 1941, in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, to George and Marion (Gilbert) Helmuth, Jim graduated from Lincoln High School in Wisconsin Rapids. He began an electrical apprenticeship before enlisting in the United States Army in 1963. Stationed in France, he served as a soil analyst and earned recognition as a sharpshooter until his honorable discharge in 1965. Upon returning home, he completed his apprenticeship and enjoyed a long, respected career as an electrician with IBEW Union Local 388, where his hard work and dedication were widely admired.

Shortly after his return from the service, Jim met Susan Klemp. They married on July 30, 1966, and together raised their three children, Sara, Jeff, and Russ. Their life together was filled with love and adventure. Jim remained a proud member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers for 60 years. He found great joy in snowmobiling, skiing, and was a founding member of the River Cities Nordic Ski Club. An avid explorer, he never took the same route twice, always seeking new places and experiences. He loved NASCAR, attending races at speedways across multiple states, and had a deep passion for motorcycles. He excelled at repairing them and cherished riding, making annual trips to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota whenever possible—up to eight times—and participating in a weekly Tuesday morning motorcycle club with family and friends. Above all, Jim treasured time spent with his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchild, and dogs, creating countless cherished memories.

He is survived by his wife, Susan; children Sara (Ron) Nelson, Jeff Helmuth, and Russ (Lori) Helmuth; grandchildren Kailey (Andy) Opheim, Kenzie Helmuth, and Karlie Helmuth; great-grandchild Clover; sisters Mary Leech and Gladys (Jerry) Vacha; sister-in-law Karlene Helmuth; brother-in-law Dennis (Leah) Klemp; and Heather Utecht, Maddison Reinwand, and Connor Scray, whom he considered family. He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Marion Helmuth; father- and mother-in-law Lloyd and Violet Klemp; siblings Shirley Siems, Eileen Nelson, Bill Helmuth, Roy Helmuth, Evelyn Bakki, and Joe Helmuth; and great-grandson Journey.