OBITUARY Ronald Joseph Helton of Lonedell, MO departed this life in Creve Coeur, MO on October 23, 2022, having reached the age of seventy-six years, six months and seven days. Ronald was born in St. Louis, MO on April 16, 1946, son of Wade Charles Helton and Virginia Elizabeth Helton nee Gudermuth. On March 11, 1966 he was united in marriage to Rhonda Gayle Nelson and four children came to bless this union. Ronald is survived by his children, David Helton of Lonedell, MO, Ronnie Helton and wife, Kathy, of Bismark, MO, Carla Helton and significant other, Tom Galloway, of Hillsboro, MO and Patty Helton and significant other, Perry Allen, of St. Clair, MO; by three sisters, Barbara Bobb and husband, Melvin, of St. Louis, MO, Sandra Junge of St. Clair, MO and Karen Hammonds of St. Clair, MO; by his grandchildren, Michael Helton and wife, Stephanie, of Sullivan, MO, Matthew Helton of St. Clair, MO, Melissa Helton and significant other, Derek Pritchett, of Sullivan, MO, Morgan Helton of St. Clair, MO, Mason Helton and girlfriend, Hope, of Union, MO, R.J. Helton and wife, Kaela, of Arnold, MO, Valerie French of the state of CA and Katelyn Stulce and husband, Austin, of Viburnum, MO; by his special friend, Fern Linhorst of Sullivan, MO; by ten great-grandchildren with one on the way, brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, great and great-great-nieces and nephews, cousins and many friends. Ronald was preceded in death by his parents, Wade and Virginia Helton; by his wife, Rhonda Helton; and by one sister, Jeannine Brakensick. Ronald was a Christian, having been recently saved while in the hospital and believing in the Lord as his Savior. During his working career he was employed as a machine operator at Missouri Envelope for over thirty years. He also owned and operated Helton Small Engine Repair. Ronald had a variety of interests throughout his life including doing crossword puzzles, word searches and jigsaw puzzles. He also loved telling stories, watching television, especially reality shows, and eating candy and sweets. He enjoyed classic cars, going to car shows and collecting Elvis Presley memorabilia. He also enjoyed being outdoors, sitting on the porch and watching the wildlife. Ronald loved making friends and spending time with his family. His children and grandchildren held a very special place in his heart, as he did in theirs, and cherished the time spent with them. A kind and loving father, father-in-law, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, brother-in-law, companion, uncle, great and great-great-uncle, cousin and treasured friend, he will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew and loved him. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, October 28, 2022 at Russell Colonial Funeral Home in St. Clair, MO with Rev. Melvin Bobb officiating. Interment will be in Midlawn Memorial Gardens in Union, MO. Memorials may be made to the family.