Richard C. Helgeson Sr.

Dick was a family friend, and I adored playing with his sons when we came to Portland for visits. Then, Dick became my stepfather for a time. He encouraged my musical interests and changed my life in many positive ways. Then, things weren’t so great, and he left our family abruptly, but I have good memories of playing with his kids in the West hills house, and of Dick’s many talents. A brilliant photographer, and musician, he was very funny and witty, too. I’ve thought of him often through...

I knew all five Helgeson boys (and their mother too) when we grew up fifty years ago in the West Hills. Steve babysat me and my siblings several times, David was a chum of my brother's, and Peter, the youngest, was but a preschooler.

I have a cute photo from the time but hesitate to share it here because David is flipping me off behind the camera. Let me know if you'd like me to share it.

My condolences to you all.