Melissa Ann Helmig, 61, St. Louis, formerly of Jefferson City, passed away peacefully with her loving children close by Dec.17, 2021.
She was born May 29, 1960, to Frank F. Jost, Jr. and the late Linda L. (Chicowlas) Jost in Cape Girardeau.
She was united in marriage to her high school sweetheart, Randy K. Helmig, May 12, 1979, at St. George Catholic Church in Linn.
Melissa was a 1978 graduate of Linn High School and earned an associates degree from Columbia College. She continued her education at St. Charles Community College and studied human services. Melissa worked for almost 30 years in nursing home administration, most recently for St. Louis Place Health and Rehabilitation. She genuinely believed the elderly are treasures to be honored and was a fierce advocate on her clients’ behalf.
Melissa had a thirst for learning, was an avid reader and moviegoer, and enjoyed growing sunflowers and peppers. Front-porch sitting with a cocktail was a favorite pastime. Her truest passion, however, was caring for her family. For 42 years, Melissa, with the beautiful smile and generous heart, was the rock of her family. Her children and grandchildren were her absolute pride and joy.
She was preceded in death by mother, Linda; brother, Ron; maternal grandparents, Edward and Mary Chicowlas; paternal grandparents Frank F. and Flossie L. (Lam) Jost, Sr.; mother- and father-in-law, Raymond “Buck” and Juanita Helmig; brother- and sister-in-law Joe and Lois Helmig; and brothers-in-law Dick Helmig, Roger “Gail” Helmig and Daniel Creach.
Melissa is survived by husband Randy; father, Frank F. Jost, Jr.; daughters, Cari Divine and husband Prince, Christine Berg and husband Josh and Casandra Helmig; son, Nathan Helmig; grandchildren, Skyler, ShyAnn and Sydney Berg; brother, Randy Jost and wife Vickie; sister, Cindy Ruether and husband Gary; sisters-in-law, Donna Jost and husband Ron, Reta Seals and husband Ross, Vickie Helmig and Karen Helmig; brothers-in-law, Robert “Spike” Helmig and wife Sig and Tim Helmig and wife Cheryl; and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends who were special to her.
Visitation will be held from 1 to 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 22, followed by a memorial service at Houser-Millard Funeral Home in Jefferson City with Deacon Tom Whalen officiating. Inurnment will be held at Riverview Cemetery Mausoleum.
Memorial contributions suggested to the family to assist with funeral expenses.
Arrangements entrusted to Houser-Millard Funeral Directors in Jefferson City.
