Mark H. Helgager

Mark Hans Helgager, age 77, of Golden Valley, passed away peacefully on October 8, 2024, surrounded by family. 

 Mark is survived by his loving wife, Barbara; children, Eric, Andrea, Syl Kristine, Molly, and Grace; grandchildren, Angelina and Chloe; brothers, James (Dagmar) Helgager and Dave (Judy) Helgager; and many other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Bennie and Mae Helgager. 

Mark was born July 30, 1947, to Bennie and Mae Helgager in Sioux Falls, South Dakota and grew up in Hurley South Dakota. He later graduated from Hurley High School and attended Augustana University in Sioux Falls. 

 Most of Mark's career was in insurance sales. He also successfully coordinated several group homes. He was active at the King’s House Retreat Center in Buffalo, as well as the Knights of Columbus for many years. He enjoyed volunteering for Meals on Wheels. 

 Mark’s favorite pastime was fishing the day away on his favorite Minnesota lakes, and he loved to cook a delicious fish fry with the day’s catch. He enjoyed the outdoors and instilled a love of nature in his daughters, whom he always took with him on his many adventures. He liked to spend time in the garden growing his favorite vegetable- tomatoes, along with green beans and rhubarb. 

 When he had to be inside, he loved to build a nice warm fire for the family and watch a good sci-fi flick. His daughters will never forget his many songs, made-up on the spot to make them laugh, and his dance parties to his favorite rock-n-roll songs. 

 Mark was strong, resilient, kind, generous and extraverted. He had an effortless authenticity, with an infectious gregariousness and sense of humor, bringing joy with him wherever he went. His unique laughter and jokes will never be forgotten by those who knew him well. 

 He faced challenges in his life with resilience, tenacity, and strength. He certainly had that “Helgager determination,” as he called it. 

 He will be dearly missed by all who knew him. 

 Mass of Christian Burial 11:00 a.m. Thursday, October 17 at Good Shepherd Catholic Church, 145 Jersey Ave S, Golden Valley. Visitation one hour prior service. Internment at Gethsemane Cemetery, New Hope following luncheon. 

 Special thanks to North Memorial Hospital, North Memorial Cancer Center, and the Hospice Care Team. We appreciate all the doctors, nurses and staff who worked closely with Mark this past year.