Rhodes, Michigan, bids a sudden farewell to Lyle M. Helm Jr., a master stone mason and bricklayer whose skilled hands shaped landmarks across Mid-Michigan until his unexpected passing on November 24, 2025, at age 56. Known for his meticulous craftsmanship on the iconic Cheesehouse in Pinconning, Lyle’s legacy of hard work and quiet pride endures in every wall he raised and every hearth he built.
Born and raised in the Rhodes area, Lyle grew up surrounded by Gladwin County’s forests and fields, learning early the value of honest labor and the satisfaction of a job done right. From youth, he apprenticed in masonry, honing techniques passed down through generations of Michigan craftsmen. His reputation for precision and durability made him a trusted name on job sites throughout the region.
Lyle poured decades into stone and brickwork, with his signature visible on the distinctive facade of The Cheesehouse, a beloved roadside landmark that drew visitors from across the state. Colleagues respected his steady pace and problem-solving eye, while homeowners cherished the lasting beauty he created in chimneys, patios, and foundations that stood the test of Michigan winters.
When not on scaffolding, Lyle found peace tending his garden, cutting firewood for the long cold months, and riding wooded trails on his ATV with family and friends. These simple pleasures reflected his deep connection to the land and the quiet joy he took in providing for those he loved. His garage often rang with laughter during weekend gatherings of kin and fellow tradesmen.
Family anchored every part of Lyle’s world, where his devotion as husband, father, and grandfather created a home filled with warmth, shared meals, and stories around the fire. He leaves behind a tight-knit circle who now carry forward his lessons of perseverance and the pride of a craftsman’s calloused hands.
Though Lyle’s sudden departure leaves Mid-Michigan quieter, his enduring stonework and the memories forged in sawdust and soil keep his spirit alive across Rhodes and beyond. The community gathers to honor a true builder whose legacy stands as solidly as the walls he raised. Arrangements are forthcoming through local services.