Merlin Clyde Helms, son of Howard and Audrey (McMann) Helms, was born on February 14, 1936, at Auburn, Nebraska. He passed away at his home in Shenandoah, Iowa, on Wednesday, February 22, 2006, following a bout with cancer.
Merlin was raised in Auburn and attended the Auburn Community Schools, graduating from Auburn High School with the Class of 1954. Shortly after high school he enlisted in the U. S. Army serving for two years before being honorably discharged in June of 1957.
On April 25, 1958, Merlin was united in marriage to Barbara Blevins in Maryville, Missouri. Following their marriage they made their home in Auburn. They later lived in Nebraska City, Nebraska and moved to Omaha, Nebraska in 1980. Merlin worked for the International Union of Operating Engineers before taking a job as a heavy equipment operator at the Knights of AK-SAR-BEN Race Track in Omaha. He cared for and maintained the race track surface. Merlin retired from AK-SAR-BEN in 1997. He and Barbara moved to Shenandoah in 2004. He was a member of the Operating Engineers and former member of the Nemaha County Saddle Club and Eagles Club. Merlin loved woodworking and creating things with his hands. He also enjoyed NASCAR Racing, visiting the Ozarks and spending time outdoors.
Preceding Merlin in death were his parents; son, Rodney Helms; daughter-in-law, Kathy Helms; and brother, Don Helms. Survivors include his wife Barbara of the home; two sons, Larry Helms of Shenandoah, IA and Karla Helms of Walnut, IA ; Chris Helms and his wife Janey of Omaha, NE; seven grandchildren, Christopher and wife Julie, Cory, Kelsey, Karley, Kalyn, Jessica, Erica; three brothers, Terry Helms and wife Gloria of Lorton, NE, Ross Helms of Auburn, NE and Rick Helms and his wife Laddie of Auburn, NE; the Blevins family, brothers, and sisters who were always there. Fred Ringer brother-in-law and best buddy; other relatives and many friends.
A memorial gathering celebrating the life of Merlin was held on Monday, February 27, 2006, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Hackett-Livingston Funeral Home in Shenandoah.