Barbara Helgeson

Barbie Helgeson, 23, passed away unexpectedly of a sudden illness, surrounded by her family on Jan. 1, 2013, at St Luke's Hospital in Duluth.

Barbie was born on June 2, 1989, and was the youngest of four children born to Allan and Kathy Helgeson.

She graduated from Denfeld High School in 2007, and attended some college at Ridgewater College in Willmar, Minn.

Barbie spent most of her time doing things for others. No request was too big or too small to her, as they were all important. Barbie enjoyed spending time with family especially her nieces and nephew, who held a very special place in her heart. Barbie touched the lives of everyone she came into contact with. In recent years she worked as a Personal Care Attendant with various companies in the Duluth area.

Barbie was preceded in death by her loving grandparents Clarence and Ann Helgeson and Francis and Lorene Arndorfer. She was also preceded by a dear family friend, Margie Kuehn. And family pets Smokey Joo (dog), Stockings, and Tippy (cats).

Barbie is survived by her father and step-mother Allan and Brenda Helgeson; her mother Kathy (Kate) Helgeson; brothers Ben Helgeson and Bob Helgeson (Kristie Hill); her sister Rebecca (Becky) Helgeson, all of Duluth, step-sisters Tina Niece of North Carolina and Ashley Johnson (Adam) of Duluth. Barbie is also survived by her very special nieces Kristin and Mylee, and her special nephew Sullivan. As well as step-nephews Joseph, Justin, and Chase of North Carolina. She is also survived by her large extended family and her many special friends.

VISITATION: 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 5, 2013 in Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Duluth, with the service following at 1 p.m. Afterwards there will be a Celebration of Life reception at the church.

Arrangements by Dougherty Funeral Home of Duluth.