Obituary of Berniece Helming

Berniece Matheson Helming, 89, of Strasburg, Colorado passed away on June 10, 2014 with her family at her side. Berniece was born on December 17, 1924 in Collinsville, Oklahoma to Joseph Harvey and Opal (Wann) Sims. Her father was the town marshal and her mother was a homemaker. She grew up in Collinsville graduating from high school in 1942. Berniece married William Matheson Jr. shortly after he graduated high school in 1943. The couple was blessed with three children; William Joe, Steve and Roy Matheson. Berniece was very devoted to family, in fact she first met her husband after moving to Simla, Colorado to help care for her grandparents. The family moved to Strasburg in 1950 where they farmed. After her husband’s death in 1961, Berniece worked as a cook at the Strasburg school, becoming the Director of Food Services prior to her retirement. Berniece later married Loyd Helming and the coupled enjoyed many years together. Berniece was preceded in death by her two husbands; William Matheson Jr. and Loyd Helming as well as two sons; William Joe and Steve Matheson. Berniece is survived by her son Roy and his wife Roberta Matheson of Strasburg, Colorado and daughter-in-law Patricia Matheson of Cheyenne, Wyoming; three grandchildren; Mackienzie Matheson, Rachel (Eric) Gillaspie and Kristen Matheson and two great grandchildren; Nevaeha Matheson and Aubrionna Sweatman. She is also survived by her stepchildren and their families: Henry Helming; Melody (Mike) Toineeta; and Howard Helming. Berniece will be missed by all that knew her as Mom, Grandmother, Great Grandmother and Aunt.