WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Helma Kaye Gehlbach, age 72, of Sturgis, passed away Friday, May 12, 2023 at her home.
She was born August 17, 1950 in Lincoln, Illinois, daughter of the late Robert and Rose Marie (Baughman) Gehlbach.
Helma’s early life was spent in Lincoln, Illinois where she was a graduate of Lincoln High School. She furthered her education at Eastern Illinois University where she earned a Bachelor Degree in Physical Education. Helma resided in Sturgis since the early 1990s coming from Hoopeston, Illinois. From 2016-2021 she resided in Goshen, Indiana caring for her parents.
On May 3, 1996 she married Ronald D. Rice in Gainesville, Missouri.
Helma was a mail carrier for 30 years and six months retiring in 2011.
She attended Radiant Life Church in Sturgis and enjoyed playing Bunco, solving crossword puzzles, and was an avid reader. Helma made many friends through the years.
She is survived by her husband: Ron Rice; her two sons: Daniel Boardman and Clint Boardman, both of Phoenix; grandchildren; step-sons: Jeremy (Julie) Rice of El Paso, and James (Sarah) Rice of Brooklyn; step-grandchildren: Maddie, Luther and Victoria and sister: Rose Mary (John) Murray of Hoonah, Alaska and nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents and brother: Robert “Bobby” Gehlbach.
In accordance with her wishes cremation has taken place. No services are planned at this time.
The Hackman Family Funeral Homes of Sturgis is entrusted with the arrangements.
The family suggests those wishing to make a memorial donation in Helma’s memory consider the Greencroft Goshen Foundation, 1721 Greencroft Blvd, Goshen, IN 46526.
We encourage relatives and friends to share memories and condolences at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.
