CHAMPAIGN, IL- John "Jay" Helmick, 59 of Champaign, passed away on June 12, 2008 at home. There will be a visitation on Sunday, June 15, from 5-8PM at Renner-Wikoff Chapel, 1900 S. Philo Rd., Urbana, IL. Funeral Services will be held at 10:00 A.M., Monday, June 16, at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Eastlawn Cemetery, Urbana, with military rites by Champaign V.F.W.#5520.

Jay was born on January 13, 1949 in Champaign, the son of Herb and Florence Helmick of Urbana. He married Carolyn Wariner on April 5, 1969. She survives. Jay attended Champaign schools. He joined the Marine Corp, and was proud of his services. He was a veteran of the Vietnam War and received a medal for good conduct, a Vietnam service medal, and a Marine Corps defense service medal, as well as a badge for rifle marksmanship. Jay was a chair member of the Richard L. Pittman Marine Corps League, Post 1231.

Jay enjoyed his motorcycle, and loved to ride. He was a proud father and especially enjoyed his grandchildren.

He was employed with Royse & Brinkmeyer Apartments in the Maintenance Department where he enjoyed his job. He also worked for the Champaign County Housing Authority for many years.

Jay is survived by his parents, wife, his son, Matt Helmick of St. Joseph, his two daughters, Carla Gass (Mike) of Tenn., and Melissa Helmick of Champaign; a brother, Rick Helmick (Debbie) of St. Joseph; sisters, Patti Helmick of Champaign, JoLynn Lewis (Boots) of Idaho, Vicki Plackett (Gary) of Pesotum, Kristi Helmick of Champaign; several nieces and nephews, and six grandchildren, McKenzie, Kaylee, Cade, Caelan, Gabriella, and Kaitlyn. Also surviving are his beloved family members from Indiana, Marty Smith, Donny Smith, Brenda Lewis (Jim), Roger Smith and Rusty Smith (Patty).

Jay was preceded in death by his paternal and maternal grandparents, a brother, Herb Helmick Jr., a nephew, Ricky "Boo" Helmick and a niece, Lori Lewis Rivera.

There will come a time when you believe everything is finished, that will be the beginning.

Memorials may be made in memory of John Helmick to the Richard L. Pittman Marine Corps League, 2902 Carrolton Dr., Champaign, IL 61821.