Norman Henry Helm unexpectedly passed away inside his Eureka home May 16, 2008. A native of Albany, Calif., he has been a Eureka resident for the past 22 years.

Norman grew up in Southern California, spending his formative years in dedicated service with the United States Navy. After two full enlistments, during which he was deployed in several areas around the world, Norman returned stateside and began employment as a sheet metal worker at McDonnell Douglas Aeronautics in Long Beach, Calif. Norman was afflicted with a traumatic brain injury from a motorcycle accident in 1984, which confined him to a wheelchair since that time. He moved with his wife and three children to Eureka in 1986.

Most who are acquainted with Norman remember him as a kind, loving, gentle soul who enjoyed the small pleasures in life. He was always a kid at heart with a light spirit and an amazing sense of humor. He loved to spend time with his family and always volunteered in civic programs, including Boy Scouts, youth football and church activities. Norman was an active member in the Eureka Adult Day Program, as well as the wonderful Making Headway Organization, which assists those afflicted with traumatic brain injuries.

Norman is survived by his son Matthew Helm and his wife Audrey, of Eureka; his daughter Patricia Helm, of Reno, Nev.; his son William Helm, of Reno; his former wife Carole Colburn and her husband Robert, of Eureka; his brother Harold Helm, of Orland, Calif.; his brother Danny Helm and his wife Tammy, of Manteca, Calif.; and several other extended family members scattered throughout the western United States.

Norman was preceded in death by his father, Norman Amos Helm, and his mother, Dorothy Mae Helm.

In lieu of flowers, Norman’s family asks that friends make a donation in his name to the Making Headway Organization, located at 305 O St., Eureka, CA 95501. A special thanks Brenda Bertain for always helping him and being a great teacher!

A memorial service will be held later on a specified date. The family wants to add a sincere thank-you to everyone who has helped Norman throughout his wonderful, short life, and to the awesome care providers at Aguilar Manor.