Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Walter Helaas Obituary
Walter Daniel Helaas
Walter was born to Daniel and Anna Helaas on July 8, 1919 in a prairie sod house outside of Malta, Montana joining brothers, Philip and Reuben. Walter's family moved to Everett in 1929, and later relocated to Bellingham, WA where Walt graduated from Bellingham High in 1939.
Walt joined the United States Army Air Corps in 1939, serving in World War II as a gunner on B17's. Walt's WWII Tour of Duty included Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines, India, and the Middle East. The 7th Bombardment Squadron reunions across the country were regular highlights through the years. Walt was one of the last surviving members of his band of brothers.
Walt returned from the war in 1946, and married Helen Anderson on April 25, 1947. Daughters, Susan and Sharon, joined the family and Walt and Helen made Everett their home.
Walt retired in 1981 from Associated Sand and Gravel after 28 years as Purchasing Agent. Walt and Helen's retirement travels included Europe, Israel, New Zealand, and Australia. Visiting family in Norway and seeing where his parents immigrated from was an especially meaningful trip for Walt.
On March 1, 2011, while surrounded by family, Walter Daniel Helaas passed gently into eternal life.
Walt is survived by his loving wife, Helen Helaas; daughters, Susan Hickok (Robin), of Moses Lake, WA, Sharon Greenwood (Gary), of Seattle, WA; grandchildren, Jennifer Hickok, Kristina Daheim (Matt), Mark Hickok (Heather), Adam Greenwood and Sarah Greenwood; great-grandsons, Micah, Eli and Liam Daheim; and many nieces and nephews.
The family thanks Providence Hospice of Snohomish County, the Puget Sound Kidney Center of Everett, the community of Washington Oakes, Our Savior's Lutheran Church of Everett, and many friends who loved Walt.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to any of the above organizations.
The funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., this Sunday, March 6, 2011 at Our Savior's Lutheran Church, 215 West Mukilteo Blvd, Everett.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Walter Helaas
6 Entries
Janet Anglin Anderson
March 6, 2011
Helen, I just read about your dear husband. I am so sorry for your loss. I know my parents had great respect for Walt. My prayers go out to you & your family.
March 4, 2011
Such a happy, personable man. Walt always inquired about my children and grandchildren, and showed care for me as a friend at OSLC. I will miss his smiling face and infectious positive demeanor!
Helen, and my dear friend Susan, may you be comforted by the amazing memories you will carry forever of sharing your lives with him. - - - -
Suzanne Bay
Gary Moen
March 4, 2011
I have found memories of Walt's sense of humor and caring nature. I am sorry that I can not attend the service, but am on vacation in Argentina. My deepest sympathies are extended to his family during this difficult time.
Elizabeth Fuerstenau/Stover
March 3, 2011
Dear Helaas family, I am sorry to hear of your loss. MR Helaas was a kind and gentle man. He had a very nice smile too. May God give you comfort and strength .Elizabeth Fuerstenau Stover
March 3, 2011
Helen, May your memories of a kind and gentle man console you at this time of loss.
Dave Nasman
Tom T Hall
March 3, 2011
Sorry to here of Walt's passing. Walt was great freind and help me takeoff my truck sales carreer. My heart goes out to the Family
Showing 1 - 6 of 6 results
Make a Donation
in Walter Helaas's name
Memorial Events
for Walter Helaas
How to support Walter's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Walter Helaas's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
