Dr. William J. Helder
Age 85, of Lansing, MI, passed away August 29, 2018. He was born November 22, 1932, in Holland, to Edward and Margaret Helder.
A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, September 10, 2018, at Riverwalk Theatre, 228 Museum Dr., Lansing. Memorial contributions may be made to Riverwalk Theatre, P.O. Box 12249, Lansing, MI 48901.
9 Messages to “Dr. William J. Helder”
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Joyce Hoedeman
September 2, 2018 at 8:48 amBill’s death will leave a big void in Lansing’s theatre circle. I was so sorry to hear of his passing, Lee. I’ve known you and Bill since the days of the Okemos Barn Theatre and have valued your friendship for many years.
David and Gartha Angus
September 2, 2018 at 4:35 pmBill Helder has probably done more to promote civic amateur drama in Lansing than anyone else in recent memory. Drama and spectacle fascinated him from the time he performed as a drum major for the bands at Holland High and Hope College. In high school his love of drama was spurred by the teacher Ruby Calvert, and it was logical that he should become a teacher himself. Bill became a leader in several dramatic clubs in the local area, supported often in productions by his able and talented wife, Lee. Dr. Helder became one of the founders of the Riverwalk Theater, who worked tirelessly to improve and secure funding for that gem of a venue for local productions and talent. He will certainly be missed; his influence lives on.
Shannon Broadwell
September 3, 2018 at 9:58 amSo sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. Many prayers and much love sent to his family during this time.
Warren Timothy Beam
September 3, 2018 at 12:59 pmBill, You were a Stage Father to all of Us.
Cheryl Gifford Cushion
September 5, 2018 at 5:58 amC. W. Otto Junior High School the fall of 1960 and Dr. Helder managed to lead our class of newly minted seventh graders through the process of writing, producing and presenting the holiday school assembly that December….in addition to our regular social studies class work. Nearly sixty years later and my memory of that experience is still vivid. His impact was not only broad, but long lived.
Rod Petersen
September 5, 2018 at 5:18 pmBill provided outstanding leadership at the AIC. He expanded the education for many, including the teachers. He will be missed.
Ginny Foster
September 9, 2018 at 7:48 pmTo Rich Helder from Ginny Foster, Mitch’s mom….please know that I am thinking of you as you say goodbye to your father….he was a strong supporter of the arts in education and I remember his determined and strong presence in state arts meetings. Comfort to you at this fragile time.
Ginny
Norma & Joe Mariage
September 20, 2018 at 6:27 pmBill was a great educator, great leader & a great friend. He will be missed!
Leslie Birdwell Shortlidge
September 20, 2018 at 11:00 pmBill was an adult who had faith in me when I was a kid. He was funny, generous, a marvelous actor. Thank you, Bill, and peace to your family.
Leslie Birdwell Shortlidge