William Helus

William “Willie” Helus, 86, of Colby, passed away on Sunday, January 16, 2022. He was born September 5, 1935, in Wilson, KS, to James and Vera (Rudd) Helus. He played basketball at Selden and finished high school in Colby.

Willie married Connie Frasier and the couple had one sone, Donnie. After divorcing, he met and married Janice Gaudren, in 1956.

Willie worked various jobs around Colby; Waters Tires, Frontier Tire Service Station and managed the Bowl 300. His proudest times were working for and maintaining the Colby Consolidated Schools for 42 years, including the years he worked part time, mowing. He had also joined the Army Reserves at age 17, served 37 years, and retired at a CW-4 level. Additionally, Willie was the first Activity Bus Driver, for Colby Community College.

His favorite pastimes, through the years, were fishing, bird hunting, people watching at 4th St and Franklin and conversing with his friends. He especially enjoyed helping work the land with his friend Smokey.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Janice and five wonderfully challenged children, Starlett (Helus) Bixenman, Ronald (Deb) Helus, James (Glenda) Helus and Stacy Helus, all of Colby, and Richard (Connie) Helus, of Little Elm, TX; sister LauraAnn Cersovsky and brother Orville Helus, both of Colby. He was also graced with 12 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren and just missed his first great-great grandchild, by three months.

A graveside service will take place at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, April 23, 2022, at Beulah Cemetery, Colby, with Pastor Don Martin officiating. For information or condolences visit www.baalmannmortuary.com