OAK ISLAND — Robert Emmet “Bob” Helme Sr., 70, passed away Monday, Feb. 25, 2019, at his home surrounded by his loving family. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Captain Charles F. Helme and Anne Bennett Helme; sister Anne; and his canine best friend, Gunner.
Bob was born June 3, 1948, in Baltimore, Maryland, to Captain Charles F. Helme Jr. and Anne Bennett. He attended many schools as a “Navy brat,” including one in England. Bob learned to excel as a student and went to Virginia Tech, earning his Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering in 1971 and then a Master of Science in Nuclear Engineering in 1973.
He had a long tenure with Carolina Power and Light that began in 1972. In 1982, he accepted a role at their Brunswick Nuclear Plant as director of onsite safety. He held other roles at Carolina Power and Light starting in 1987 and lasting until 1999 when he joined U.S. Enrichment Corp. at USEC, he was the director of engineering for sites in Ohio and Kentucky. Bob distinguished himself throughout his career as he maintained high safety and efficiency standards, oversaw multi-million dollar budgets and projects and adhered to regulatory requirements.
Bob was recognized by the state of Kentucky as a Kentucky colonel for his volunteer work with children’s charities. In 2011, he and Susan retired to Oak Island. Bob had many pastimes such as fishing, golf, games of chance and Sudoku. He also enjoyed discussing current events, keeping in touch with friends and family, spending time with his dogs and endless projects around the house.
Bob is survived by his loving wife of 32 years, Susan Helme; sons, Robert Jr., Matthew and Nicholas; stepson, Jason; grandchildren, Kiera, Aliya and Elijah; step-grandsons Jeffery and Carson; siblings, June (Ken) and Charles III (Mary); and many nieces and nephews, and other extended family and friends.
A celebration of life will be held at noon, Friday, March 8, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Southport, with a private memorial to follow.
In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to the American Heart Association and American Lung Association.
Share online condolences with the family at Coastal Cremations.
