“Our father, Charles Augustus Helm, was a devoted father and husband. He was a farmer, a timber man, and a merchant throughout his life. He was a lifetime member of the Methodist Church and always saw to it that his family had a nice way to go to church and that we were well dressed. He saw to it that we had fine buggy horses that we were exceptionally proud of. He played games with his boys and their friends, and had horses for them to ride, and swings and other games. He was a good provider in every way. He loved to have his family gather around and sing religious songs for hours. He had a variety of fruit trees, which we were at liberty to share with our friends and neighbors. Like my mother, nothing was too good for our neighbors. He only allowed the best of people, in character, to be entertained in his home. He taught us the importance of a good character and that honesty is the best policy. His word was his honor. During his 86 years of life, I never heard of anyone who doubted his word or deed of honesty. We were allowed to go for buggy rides, driving those beautiful horses just like youngsters go for car rides today.
Papa had a stroke April 25, 1961:entered the rest home June 14; and died July 19. Mama died July 23, 1961, just four days after papa.”