Carlyn Helmer

Carlyn “Cookie” Helmer passed away June 27, 2024, at The Nottingham, Syracuse, NY. She was born May 4, 1931 in Syracuse, NY, to Robert and Hester Eells, the middle child of three sisters. She met the love of her life, Jack Helmer, while they were students at Syracuse University. They were married in Syracuse, NY, on September 9, 1950 and celebrated their 67th wedding anniversary before his passing. They raised their family in Syracuse while Jack established and grew Eagle Metalcraft, Inc. Cookie was a devoted wife, a wonderful mother and a true friend. She was a gifted cook and gracious hostess who loved entertaining the many beloved friends and business associates that she and Jack cultivated over the years. Cookie volunteered at Crouse Hospital for 40 years, as one of her greatest passions was drawing for children. Cookie was an incredibly talented artist and Snoopy was always a beloved favorite. She never sent a store purchased card, they were always hand drawn. An avid lover of the outdoors, she enjoyed downhill skiing and ski racing at Song Mountain; she and Jack spent decades traveling with friends to Colorado to ski in the Rockies; she played league golf for 50 years at the Skaneateles Country Club; and she and Jack were partners in competitive sailboat racing on Skaneateles Lake. Cookie always said, “If you’re lucky enough to live on the lake, you are lucky enough.” She always appreciated the beauty and simplicity of the lake, always. 

 She was predeceased by her husband, Jack, her grandsons, Brett Helmer and Peter Helmer, and her sister Barbara Libbee. Cookie is survived by her daughter, Brenda Welch (Peter) of Rutland, VT, her son, Jim Helmer (Kitty) of Skaneateles, NY, and her son, Bill Helmer (Eileen) of Manlius, NY. She is also survived by her sister, Peggy Everbeck and many nieces and nephews. She leaves six grandchildren: Melissa Patterson, Ryan Welch, Christopher Helmer, Mark Helmer, Elise Just and Jenna Ferris. She is also survived by 10 great grandchildren: Drew and Alexis Patterson, Dylan and Mackenzie Welch, Jack Helmer, Trevor, Ryder and Mack Just, Beau and Tatum Ferris. 

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at The Nottingham RHCF-SN and Memory Care Units for the wonderful care provided to Cookie. Services will be private. Memorial contributions may be made to the Skaneateles Lake Association, PO Box 862, Skaneateles NY 13152. skaneateleslake.org/donations