HELMER

Nichole “Niki” L.L. Sheldon Helmer, 37, of Elmhurst.  Went home to be with the Lord August 10th, 2011, surrounded by family and friends.  Born April 10th, 1974 in Madison, Wisconsin, she was the daughter of Linda and Gary Sheldon.  In 1986, Niki moved to Florida where she attended Martin County High School.  She received her Bachelor Degree in Business Administration from Northwood University and, later, achieved her Masters Degree in Criminal Justice from NOVA Southeastern University.  Niki worked at Gambro Healthcare, later called DaVita, Inc. as an Advanced Certified Paralegal of the Justice League of DaVita.  Niki’s generosity of spirit was unparalled.  She offered help to anyone if she felt she had something to offer.  This was never more evident than in the loving and thoughtful decision to be an organ donor.  She was actively involved in the Chicagoland Eskie Rescue and provided assistance in Equine Therapy to a very special child, a cause she felt strongly about and truly believed in.  Niki defined the meaning of “good citizen” to her family, many friends and the community she lived in.  In 2000, she met and, later, married Kevin Helmer.  As a couple, Niki and Kevin created a life filled with considerable love and commitment.  She created a warm and welcoming home, filled with laughter, in Florida, Georgia and Illinois.  During their adventures, they added, to their family, their beloved dogs Riley, Connor, Finnegan and Niki’s horse, Raven.  Niki is survived by her loving husband, Kevin, Her mother and father Linda Ramsey and Gary Sheldon.  Beloved stepfather John Ramsey.  Dear sister Shelly Thomson-Blevins.  Aunt of Kyle, Luke and Noel. Cherished niece of Penny and Steve.   Family and friends may visit Sunday, August 14th, 3 to 8 PM at the Pedersen-Ryberg Mortuary, 435 N. York Rd., Elmhurst, IL.  A Memorial Mass will be said Monday, August 15th, 9:30 AM at Visitation Catholic Church, York and Madison St., Elmhurst.  Please meet at church.  Interment Private.  In lieu of flowers, memorials to Raven Fund, (make checks payable to  Kevin Helmer),  P.O. Box 745 , Elmhurst, IL. 60126-0745 are appreciated. Info 630.834.1133 or www.pedersen-ryberg.com