William Helm

William "Sonny" Helm, age 76, of Waco, passed away Friday, September 5, 2008 at Hillcrest Medical Center in Waco. Funeral services will be held 3:00 p.m. Tuesday at Aderhold Funeral Home in West, with Dr. John Crowder officiating. Burial will follow at Gerald Cemetery. The family will receive visitors from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Mr. Helm was born on July 2, 1932 in Axtell, the son of James and Ella (Worrell) Helm. He attended schools in Waco and served his country in the United States Air Force. On October 12, 1956, he was united in marriage to Ella Mae Markwardt. He worked for Olmstead-Kirk Paper Co., Jack's Stereo in Waco, and Renschler's, before retiring in 1992. Sonny loved to play the guitar, sing country music, and collect country music memorabilia. He also enjoyed studying geneology. He is preceded in death by his parents; a grandson, Kevin Gaidusik; and a half-brother, Wilbur Wallis. Survivors include his beloved wife, Ella Mae Helm of Waco; one daughter, Karen Cannard-Curtis and husband Samuel of West; two brothers, Thomas Helm and wife Margaret of Fredericksburg and Kenneth Helm of Houston; one sister, Marie St. John of Ft. Worth; three half-brothers, Charles Wittenburg, Jr. and wife Mary of Waco, Marvin Wittenburg and wife Sharon of Woodway, and John Helm and wife Debbie of North Texas; one granddaughter, Michelle Gaidusek of West; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends, including a special friend, Brandon Arriola and wife Randi. Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.