Catherine Helms

Catherine “Kay” Helms, a beloved wife, sister, mother, Nana, aunt, and friend, passed
away on March 4, 2025, in Elmhurst, Illinois, at the remarkable age of 103.  
Born in France on December 19, 1921, Kay lived a life filled with love and dedication to
family. She moved to the United States as a young girl of two years old and married her
beloved husband Deo in 1942. Kay’s family was the center of her world, and she
embraced every moment spent with them.  Rain or shine, she never missed a game,
dance recital or play that a member of her family participated in. She was always
present to cheer on those she loved. She always had an open door and a plate of food
(usually something with red sauce) to offer to her family and friends.
Kay is survived by her sister Paulette (late Don); her sons Jim and Larry (Candy); her
daughter-in-law Marge (late Thomas); as well as 11 grandchildren, 15 great-
grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. 
Kay was preceded in death and has been lovingly reunited with her husband Deo; her
son Thomas; her sisters Dolley (Tiny) and Yvonne (Joe); her brother Columb (Marilyn);
and brother-in-law Don.  
A lifelong Chicago Cubs fan, Kay faithfully watched every game, celebrating victories
and enduring losses with unwavering loyalty. It was her great joy to live long enough to
see the Cubs win the World Series in 2016.
Her family and friends will gather at a Celebration of Life held in her honor on March 15,
2025, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Salerno’s on Lake Street in Roselle, Illinois.  
Kay’s touched the lives of everyone that she met,