James Dennis Helzer

JAMES HELZER

April 27, 1938 – December 2, 2020

            Modesto, CA – James Helzer, 82, passed away peacefully on December 2, 2020, surrounded by family.  A lifelong resident of California, Jim spent the majority of his life in Fresno where he graduated from Fresno State University with a degree in Business Administration.  He then went on to serve his country in the US Army.  After leaving the military, he received his Master's degree in Hospital and Health Care Administration from the University of Iowa.  Jim went on to work as a hospital administrator for Fresno Community Hospital and eventually became the President and CEO of Community Hospitals of Central California where he played a key role in the development of Clovis Community Hospital.  Jim was an active member of both First Presbyterian Church and the North Fresno Rotary Club.  After leaving Fresno, he went on to serve as the Administrator of the Veteran's Home of CA in Yountville.

            Jim is survived by his two daughters, Becky and Amy, and his eight grandchildren. He will be fondly remembered for his love of Fresno State Football, Huntington Lake, See's caramels, and making pancakes for his grandchildren. Due to Covid, there will be a graveside service for immediate family only.  In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Bethel Retirement Center (memo - “Caregiver's Fund”) or Community Hospice.

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