Bernard A. Helfat

HELFAT - Bernard A., died peacefully on October 20, 2007, at his home in Douglaston, N.Y., at the age of 90. He practiced Law for over 60 years, first with his father, J. Nathan Helfat, and later as a sole practitioner. Mr. Helfat was well known in the textile industry for helping to bring to an end the longstanding practice of design piracy (knockoffs). He represented the plaintiffs in the landmark case of Peter Pan Fabrics vs. Martin Weiner, Inc. This decision had a great impact, not only on design protection in the textile industry, but for other fashion industries as well. Mr. Helfat grew up in Lawrence, L.I., and was Valedictorian of Lawrence High School, Class of 1933. He also graduated from Phillips Exeter Academy, Class of 1934, Harvard College, 1938, and Harvard Law School, 1941. During World War II he served on the War Department General Staff in Washington, D.C., and attained the rank of Captain. He was recalled during the Korean War, serving in the National Security Agency and was a recipient of the Bronze Star. After returning to civilian life, Mr. Helfat and his family settled in Douglaston, Queens, where he became active in civic affairs and politics. He was a founding member and a past President of Temple Emanuel of Great Neck, past President of the Douglaston Civic Association, and past Chairman of the New York City School Board for North East Queens. Mr. Helfat was also a past President of the Bayside Democratic Club and ran for Congress on the Democratic and Liberal Party Lines in 1960. Sailing with his family on the Long Island Sound and tending to his rose garden were favorite pastimes. He is survived by Lucile, his beloved wife of 64 year; two sons, Jonathan and Mark; his two loving daughters-in-law, Robin and Mendy; as well as his two grandsons, Benjamin and Joshua (Abigail). Funeral Services will be held at Temple Emanuel of Great Neck (corner of Hicks Lane and Station Road, Great Neck, N.Y.), on October 22, 2007, at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Temple Emanuel of Great Neck.