Peter L. Helgeson

Peter L. Helgeson

AGE: 81 • Leisuretowne

Peter L. Helgeson, 81, of the Leisuretowne section of Southampton, NJ, passed away Saturday, March 14, 2015, at home surrounded by his family.

Born in Wichita, Kansas, Peter was raised in Merchantville, NJ, where he lived most of his life. He and his wife Madelon have spent the last 16 years in Leisuretowne. Peter graduated from the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, where he earned his Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Design and Mechanical Engineering. He led a very interesting career as a Mechanical Engineer and Industrial Designer. Peter held 23 patents and won many designing awards. He was a U.S. Army veteran who proudly served during the Korean War. He was a parishioner at the Church of the Holy Eucharist in Tabernacle, volunteered with the St. Vincent de Paul Soceity, and was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 8733 in Tabernacle. Peter was a Fourth Degree Knight with the John Tatham Assembly #648 in Burlington County, NJ. Peter was an avid golfer, and in his spare time he hand crafted black powder rifles and shot them in competition. He was awarded a Pennsylvania State Championship in shooting. He also enjoyed oil painting.

The only child of Alice and Frank Helgeson of Merchantville, NJ; he was father of the late Peter L. Helgeson, Jr.; he is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Madelon M. Helgeson (nee O'Connor); his loving daughter and son-in-law, Dr. Deborah Swavely (Nathan) of Emmaus, PA; three grandchildren, Daniel, Nicholas and Aaron Swavely; and his great-granddaughter, Ava Swavely.

Relatives and friends may call on Thursday, March 19, 2015, from 9-11AM, at the Church of the Holy Eucharist, 520 Medford Lakes Rd., Tabernacle, NJ. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11AM, at the church. Interment will be in Colestown Cemetery, Cherry Hill, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Peter's memory to Samaritan Hospice, 5 Eves Dr. Suite 300, Marlton, NJ 08053; or to the St. Vincent de Paul Society, 520 Medford Lakes Rd., Tabernacle, NJ 08088. Arrangements are under the care and directions of the Mathis Funeral Home, Medford, NJ.