Thelma 'Bunni' Helmar

Thelma was born in Philadelphia to the late Reuben Cunningham and Thelma Endres Cunningham.  She passed away on Monday, at her home,  after a courageous battle with cancer.  She had a special devotion to St. Jude.

It's difficult to describe an entire person in a paragraph, especially one so extraordinary as our 'Bunni".  Humble in nearly every aspect, it's undeniable the impact such an intelligent, creative and kind woman has left, not only on this world but her family.  Driven by her faith, her self-sacrificing nature and commitment to put others above herself,  her spirit will be reflected in all of us. A mother, a wife, a seamstress, an animal lover, a comforting voice on the other end of the phone, our home.  Bunni has played a million roles in a countless number of our stories.  And even though it is with a heavy heart that this chapter has ended,  we have been extremely blessed that she has willingly and lovingly given us all her best parts.

And boy, could she whistle.

She is the beloved wife of Robert J. Helmar,  devoted mother of Sandy Goebel ( Bill ),  Craig Helmar ( Dawn Glinkowski ), Karen Helmar- Vetter and David Helmar ( Jeanne Rogovin ).  Loving Gmom of Brittany, Billy, Lexus, Brandon, Ashley, Nicole, Matthew, Daniel and Anastacia.   Dear sister of Charles Cunningham ( Joanne ), Leesa Erickson ( Lief ) and Patricia Devers ( Richard ).  

Relatives and friends are invited to her Funeral Mass, on Thursday February 20, 2020 at 11 AM, in Holy Name of Jesus Church, Fishtown, where friends may gather after 10 AM.  Thelma will be laid to rest with her parents in Greenmount Cemetery.   In lieu of flowers, the family is respectfully requesting memorials to Holy Name Church, at the address below.

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