Obituary - Arthur Helmer

Arthur Gene Helmer, aged 82 years, passed away on March 18, 2023, at his home in Butler, MO. A memorial service for Arthur Gene Helmer will be held at the Victory Assembly of God Church located at 601 N. Old 71 Hwy, Adrian, Missouri, on Friday, June 2, 2023, at 4:00 pm. Friends, family, and strangers alike will gather to honor a man they never knew. All are welcome to attend. Arrangements entrusted to Mullinax Funeral Home, Butler (660-679-0009).

In lieu of flowers, the “family” is requesting donations be made to On My Own, Inc. (Nevada, MO) in Arthur's name, where a fund has been established to help others like him in their time of need. Arthur's legacy will live on through the love and kindness he has inspired in those who have come to know his story. Messages of condolence may be left for the family at www.mullinaxfuneralhome.com

Mr. Helmer was born November 11, 1940, in Pleasant Hill, Missouri, to Margaret P. Helmer (Baldwin). The identity of his father remains unknown. Arthur lived in the Cass County/Bates County area his entire life. In his early years, Arthur lived with his grandparents and attended Pleasant Hill High School. During his time at school, he was fondly referred to as "Dagwood,” (a character from an old cartoon series) by his peers until the 10th grade.

Little is known about Arthur's personal and professional life, leaving much of his story untold. However, it is known that he was once married to Mary Louise Maynard (Lute) in 1975, and the couple did not have any children together.

Sadly, Arthur's life came to a tragic end, as he was discovered alone in his home, after having succumbed to the cold after a bout with pneumonia. Despite living a solitary life, Arthur has left an indelible mark on the hearts of a community of strangers who have since become his surrogate family. Many hearts have been touched by his story and forever changed by the tragedy of his life's circumstances. Although Arthur's biological family never claimed him in life or death, his new found family will lay him to rest with the love and dignity he deserves.

Arthur's passing serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of checking on our loved ones and neighbors, particularly during inclement weather. He leaves behind a legacy of resilience and fortitude amid tragedy and heartache. His memory will be treasured for the profound impact he has had on the lives of people who never had the chance to cross paths with him, but whose lives he touched, nonetheless.

Arthur may have lived a solitary life, but his passing has brought together a family of strangers who share a common bond - the knowledge that even in death, this man touched their lives in ways they never thought possible. May he rest in peace.