Obituary of James T. Helman

James T. Helman Olean, NY James Thomas Helman, 76, of Olean, passed away on Friday (April 23, 2021) at United Memorial Medical Center in Batavia after a long illness. James was born in Baltimore, MD on November 17, 1944 to the late Van and Gertrude Stanton Helman. On August 15, 1963 in at the Little Valley fairgrounds he married the love of his life, Sharon Havers Helman, and remained married for 57 years. He traveled as a member of the carnival owned by his father, Big H Amusements, prior to settling in the Olean area to raise his family. He worked at St. Bonaventure University and St. Elizabeth’s Motherhouse in Allegany. He was a good father to his 5 children and enjoyed spending time with them. He also enjoyed working on mechanical things, traveling, and being in the company of his dog, Sophie. He spent many Christmas seasons playing Santa at the Olean Center Mall, bringing joy to children. He is survived by his wife, Sharon; his sons James (Rae Lynn) Helman of Batavia, Kelly (Deanna) Helman of Zephyrhills, FL, and Jeffrey (Erica) Helman of Myrtle Beach, SC; his daughter Heidi Helman of Olean; 8 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; his brother Sandy Helman of Charleston, SC and several nieces, nephews,. He is predeceased by his parents; three sisters Judy, Lucille, and Sonya, all of Florida, and his beloved daughter, Shelly Helman of Olean. A memorial visitation will be held on Tuesday (April 27, 2021) from 2-6pm at the Casey, Halwig & Hartle Funeral Home, 3128 W. State Rd. Olean. A memorial service will immediately follow at 6pm in the funeral home. Rev. James Vacco, OFM, will officiate. A private family burial will be held at the Allegany Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in James honor to The American Heart Association. Online condolences may be expressed at oleanfuneralhome.com.