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George Franke Helfrich
George Franke Helfrich
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George Helfrich Obituary
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Leslie Wallace
November 19, 2010
I pray the Lord will grant you and your entire family the peace that only He can bring...
John Ruffin
September 6, 2010
Pat --- I am so saddened to hear of George's passing. What a wonderful man and husband. Your 50 wonderful and loving years together is a beacon to so many of us who have endeavored to follow suit. We'll all miss him greatly. -- John Ruffin, Santa Barbara (and Williamsburg)
Yoshio Miyagawa
April 13, 2010
I am very sorry to hear of the passing of Mr. Helfrich.
When I met him for the first time, I guess it was in 1995 just after I came to the United States from Japan to start my firm’s branch office. He was a patent counsel of NASA at that time and I was a Japanese patent attorney who was asked to meet him to handle Japanese patent cases.
Even after he retired from NASA, he contacted me on patent issues. He was always gentle to me.
I want to give you, Patricia, my sincere condolences for the death of your beloved husband.
Yoshio Miyagawa
Anke Jacobs
February 15, 2010
Dear Pat,
We are so sorry to hear about George's passing. We will always remember him as a humble and kind person with a heart of gold. We are grateful for the wonderful times we had with George. Our thoughts are with you, Heidi, Holly and David. Please accept our deepest sympathies.
Anke, Axel, Guenter and Hannelore
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Brent Dougal
January 13, 2010
I was one of Professor Helfrich's students at William and Mary and I want to give my condolences to the family and also express appreciation for his service to the community as a teacher. I greatly enjoyed his class and his friendship. He was a great mentor.
Dina Lerman
October 9, 2009
I will miss my special friend George
George is my dear friend Holly's dad. Holly and I worked together in an architectural firm in NYC and instantly became best friends.
When I started a line of whimsical bug things named Bugged Out, it was George who helped me with all the trademark stuff that was so overwhelming to me. In fact, he didn't just help me - he did it all! He and Pat were just as excited as I when, after years, Bugged Out first became Trademarked, and then, not that long ago, became a Registered Trademark. He and Pat were so proud of me, and I was so grateful to them for all their help and advice. They treated me like a daughter, and I felt like I had another set of parents with George and Pat. I cherish the phone calls and emails, and I would have loved to see them more often.
I first met George and Pat when they came to NYC to visit Holly. We all hung out together the entire day and had such a wonderful time!
The next time Pat and George came to NYC, Holly had already moved to France, and David came with his parents. That time George had a doctor's appointment here. Afterwards we had lunch, and later that day went to see The Producers – Pat and George’s favorite show! They saw it many times but still enjoyed it!!!
I knew that George was fighting cancer for many years, and I was always amazed at how strong and courageous and active he was throughout his fight - traveling to France to visit Holly and Julian, going to Ohio to visit Heidi and Stefan, going cruising with Pat, etc.
He was always so positive as he kept on fighting. And continued to help me with Bugged Out for several more years.
I have an illness , too. George will always be an inspiration to me. I have such love and admiration for him, and he will always hold a special place in my heart.
Thank you, George. I love you -
September 22, 2009
Dear Pat and family,
I just found out that George passed away at a W&M alumni reception in Boston. Karen and I send our condolences. I worked with George at Keil and Weinkauf, interned at NASA, and had him as a professor at William and Mary. Pat and George meant a lot to us when we first moved to DC where I worked at Keil and Weinkauf. We will miss him.
Woody Pusey
August 20, 2009
Dear Pat,
It was with a deep sense of regret that I learned of George's death from Cathy Conlon, our Law Dept. secretary from the Badische Corporation days.
George was, truly, a gentleman in every sense of the word. I have fond memories of our time as "office mates" from 1970 until his retirement from BASF in 1986.
Please accept my sincere condolences on your grievous loss, and convey my sympathies to David, Heidi and Holly.
Sincerely,
Woody Pusey
Gloria & Bob Huston
August 12, 2009
Bob and I learned of George's death from Woody Pusey but did not know how to contact you except through this guestbook. We are so sorry to learn that prostate cancer claimed his life. It seems that most of his problems have been with his heart during the time we lived in Newport News.
We hope that you and your children will be comforted by knowing that George always did everything to the best of his ability and tried to be a role model for all who knew him.
I have had a bout with cancer but am near the five-year mark. Bob also had a bout with prostate cancer 17 years ago but opted for the surgery. He has lost the sight in his left eye to macular degeneration and is being treated in the other eye for the same thing. He can still drive but is reluctant to do so.
We hope you will keep in touch once again. We are still at 500 Crestwood Dr. #2608, Charlottesville, VA.
We still remember having drinks with you and seeing you at a concert.
Michael Orth
August 10, 2009
Pat, David, Heidi, and Holly,
I can still hear George's voice in my mind. It seemed like whatever he was saying, whether he was expressing a heartfelt concern, or offering a deep observation, or telling a funny story, he would take his time and choose his words with tremendous care. I think that same sense of incredible care was present in everything I saw him do, and was in the air whenever I was around him.
Ironically, I think the last time I heard that voice was when George spoke at my father's funeral. The words he chose then honored the pain that we were all feeling, but were also filled with hope, faith, and strength. They were a great comfort to me as I dealt with my loss.
I can't tell you everything he said, but I remember how he began. He said he was going to address his words to Lester, but that he wouldn't pitch his eyes to the coffin as he did so--he'd pitch his eyes up. And there it was... he wasn't saying goodbye to someone who was lying there, but someone who was moving on to better things. I imagine he'd be saying the same thing now.
I miss him, and I miss you all. So sorry for your loss, so happy for what he's left you.
Daisy Orth
August 8, 2009
Pat, David, Heidi, and Holly, how I wanted to be with you at the celebration of George's life! Holly, I shared your frustration in not being there, but you were all so attentive and loving during the days when it meant the most to George. You were there for the only vacations our family ever took...the wonderful days in WV and Denver. You are all "my" family, too, and I love you all.
May God comfort and bless you in this period of adjustment, but I know George is not far away. He and Les are waiting for Pat and me to arrive for the really great vacation.
August 2, 2009
Heidi and Holly:
I was sorry to read of the passing of your dad.
My thoughts are with all of you.
I.D.
Stephanie Smith (Shoemaker)
July 29, 2009
Mrs. Helfrich, David, Heidi, and Holly,
I am so sorry to hear about Mr. Helfich's passing. It has been many years, but I remember him for his patience and soft-spoken ways. My prayers are with you all as you travel through this difficult time.
Carol Satterwhite
July 25, 2009
Dear Pat and Family,
You may not remember me, but I worked as George's secretary at Dow Badische back in 1971-72. He was the most helpful, polite, and understanding person I have ever met not to mention the epitome of a "Southern Gentleman." I was fortunate enough to cross paths with him again at NASA in 1984 when I returned to government service for the next 14 years. I didn't have the good fortune to work directly with him but did have occasion to see him several times. He always remembered me and praised my abilities to my current supervisor! Even though I haven't seen either of you often over the past few years, I will always remember you both with pride and Christian love.
Carol (Fenton) Satterwhite
Theresa Walker
July 24, 2009
Pat, Holly, Heidi and David, George was one of the best supervisors at NASA if not the best, in addition to being a compassionate and true friend. I enjoyed working with him at NASA until his retirement and beyond. He will be truly missed. Take comfort in that he is now one of God's heavenly angels. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you all. Yours in Christ, Theresa
Mellanie Hellmers
July 23, 2009
Aunt Pat, David, Heidi, and Holly I deeply saddened to hear about Uncle George, but I know that he is with the Lord. I will always remember the summers that you came to Omi and Poppy's and one of my favorite memories is of Uncle George and his coin trick. You will all be in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Mellanie (New Orleans, LA)
Mellanie` Hellmers
July 23, 2009
Aunt Pat, David, Heidi, and Holly I deeply saddened to hear about Uncle George, but I know that he is with the Lord. You are all in my prayers. Love, Mellanie
The Frank Family
July 23, 2009
Twenty nine years ago,my husband and I moved here from New York with two small children and one on the way. We enrolled in a Lamaze class and Pat was our instructor. During the delivery of our son, there were complications and if it wasn't for Pat's intervention our baby would have died. Her vigilance and sincere dedication touched our hearts, and for that we are forever grateful. Through that experience Pat and George took us "under their wings" and began a wonderful and special friendship with us.
Early on it was evident that Pat and George were soul mates. Their love for each other and faith in Christ touched everything they did. They became role models for my husband and we learned by their example. I remember after a family game night in their home, thinking to myself "I hope our family grows to be as happy and as fun loving as theirs".
We have so many wonderful memories of George to hold in our hearts. My fondest memories include the time we went ice skating in their back yard when the pond froze over, Christmas caroling through the neighborhood, attending plays together, and singing around the player piano. I could go on and on... We have come to love and cherish the "HELFRICH HOSPITALITY".
We will miss George greatly. He was and always will be to us, the ideal example of "A True Southern Gentleman". We will miss his sense of humor and his wonderful smile. George had a unique ability to make each and every person feel special. A man who lived his Christian faith by example, and we will miss him.
John Stankiewicz
July 23, 2009
Dear Pat and Family,
I was lucky enough to have had several courses with Professor Helfrich at William and Mary. I could not have had a better introduction to intellectual property, and patent law in particular. My classmates and I all appreciated his patience and enthusiasm. He will be greatly missed.
Shawn Gallagher
July 23, 2009
Dear Pat and Family,
My wife and I are traveling on leave and I just learned of George's passing today. I came to work at NASA in 1997 and only had limited contact with George, but he stood out as an excellent attorney and a kind soul with a great sense of humor. He has been missed in the NASA legal community but we at least got to see George every now and then, and always enjoyed those moments. I am saddened to know there will be no more of those encounters, but consoled by the memories.
You and your family will be in our prayers and thoughts during this difficult time.
Pamela Davis
July 22, 2009
Dear Pat and family,
I met George when Tina worked with him at NASA and in that brief time of knowing him I was touched by his kindness and gentle manner. He will be missed by all.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.
Duane Pettit
July 22, 2009
Dave and Family,
I enjoyed meeting your family at the NASA Langley open house. Your father was a very nice man - and every time I saw him from that point on, only strengthend my belief. Our prayers are with you and your family at this time.
Kelly Brown
July 22, 2009
Dear Pat and family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. Although there is sorrow, I am rejoicing that George is no longer ill and is at peace with our heavenly father. I enjoyed working with him and he always made the world of patent law interesting and exciting -- he was such a wonderful teacher. It was so clear he loved to teach and he was respected by all who knew him. I will treasure forever the times we had together and the things I learned from him, both professionally and spiritually. George was such a humble, compassionate and loving man who will forever hold a special place in my heart. Please know I share your loss and please call me if there is anything I can do for you. God bless you all.
Ed Fein
July 22, 2009
George was a valued member of the NASA legal family, particularly of the NASA intellectual property community. He was wise, sharing, and wonderful to be around. Those of us who knew him will remember him with affection. He will be missed.
-Ed Fein
Terri Wells
July 21, 2009
Dear Pat,
I am so sorry to hear about George. You know how much you and George have meant to me over the years. We spent many a conversation talking about how wonderful George was as a husband, father, and Christian role model.You and George are my (and Stan"s)role model for the perfect loving marriage. His legacy will live on in the memories that we will all share of his kindness and compassion for others and for his passion for life. I know that when he got to heaven, God looked at him and said, "Job well done my faithful servant." If you need anything at all, please don't hesitate to call me.
Roger & Diane Benfield
July 21, 2009
Pat and Family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this very difficult time. George was a wonderful person to everyone he met. He treated everyone with respect and it is a true loss. His love will live on forever...
Darlene Lyons
July 21, 2009
Mrs Helfrich & David.
I am so sorry to read of Mr. Helfrich's passing. He was truly a wonderful and intersting man. I enjoyed his visits when he came to K-mart Pharmacy. He was always so kind to me. I will miss him. My thoughts and prayers are with you as they have been for many years.
Beth Welch
July 21, 2009
Dear Helfrich Family,
I am a high school friend of Holly's. I just wanted to express my deepest sympathy to your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Donald Duguid
July 21, 2009
I remember George as the most pleasant person with whom to work in our days at Dow-BASF.He was truly a nice man and left this world better because of him.
April Wilson (Lilley)
July 21, 2009
Dear Helfrich Family,
I learned yesterday of Mr. H's homecoming and my heart has ached for you all. I can only hope that you will find strength, peace and love through The Comforter.
I will turn their mourning into gladness; I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow. Jeremiah 31:13 NIV
Standing on His promises!
Much love to all~
Barbara Wilken
July 21, 2009
Dear Pat, I am so happy that I met George and you- we had a wounderful time in France together. I am thinking of you!
Barbara from Germany
Bob Oteri
July 21, 2009
Dear Pat: I felt sad to read of George's death in the morning T/P. You probably don't remember me but George and I were in the same class at Nicholls High School. Our schedules allowed us to attend many classes together and I remember he always had the correct answer regardless of the subject. Somehow I knew he would be successful in whatever he chose to do . I was instrumental in organizing our 50 year reunion in 2001 and I think I met you at that time. I still have the note that George sent with his check. That was a memorable occasion. After reading the orbit I realized he had many accomplishments during his lifetime and certainly touched many lives. My prayers go with you and your children at this time knowing that our Lord has welcomed him into his eternal reward. Bob Oteri
July 20, 2009
Dear Mrs. Helfrich, David, Heidi and Holly,
Across the miles, I am saddened by the news of your loss. Though it has been MANY years, I want you to know that I remember, I care and that I do rejoice midst the sadness because Mr. H loved the Lord. May each day bring renewed hope and healing to all. With love and remembrance - Poppi Lilley (Barber)
Kelly Grist, Riverside Lab
July 20, 2009
Dear Pat and family,
I was saddened to hear of George's death. He was a brave and courageous man who fought a long and hard battle. I was proud to say he was my friend. We had interesting talks during all those many blood draws through the years. George helped me through a tough time just by listening and giving me a shoulder to lean on. He knew how to brighten a room when he walked in and knew how to make anyone smile even on a bad day. He was a very special man who will stay in my heart forever. Even though he won't be here he will definitely be there as a Guardian Angel for those grandbabies. God bless your family and may you remember all the special times you shared throughout all of your lives. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Linda Griesheimer
July 20, 2009
Dear Pat, Heidi and Stefan,
I am so sorry to hear of your great loss. I didn't get the chance to meet George face to face but we spoke on the phone and what a dear, kind man. He always ask about my family and how I was. He was generous to our clients needs and always excited to hear of new inventions and very willing to help with their ideas to go forward.
Be comforted in knowing he is at peace now.
You are in my prayers.
Sincerely,
Melanie Lawhorne
July 20, 2009
Dear Pat,
I'm not sure you remember who I am. I My name is Melanie Lawhorne and I was one of the women that gave Tina her baby shower at my house. I'm so sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you and for George. You both will be in our prayers.
Melanie, Barry and Taylor Lawhorne
Chuck Reavis
July 20, 2009
Dear Pat;
My Prayers and thoughts are with you in your time of need.
Stacey Jackson
July 20, 2009
Dear Pat & Family:
Death is not an easy task for anyone, but just thinking on the wonderful times that was shared should ease your troubled mind and knowing he is in a better place should mend your broken heart. You are forever in my prayers.
Stacey, Riverside Regional Medical Center Lab
Nic & Simone
July 20, 2009
Dear Pat, David, Heidi & Holly,
we are very sorry to hear about George's death and wish you strength in these difficult times. We are grateful for the wonderful times we had with George and his courageous, positive, and respectful way of life, which inspired us all. We hope that a new generation of family members will help overcome your loss and believe that George will live on through them and through us in body and in spirit forever.
July 20, 2009
Dear Pat,
Alan and I were deeply saddened to learn of the loss of your wonderful husband. George was such a fine, warm Christian man and a real inspiration to those who had the privilege of knowing him. He touched many lives by his loving kindness.
I feel I got to know him best at our retreats when you were at Bruton Parish and I feel fortunate to have had that experience.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Anne Morledge
July 20, 2009
Dear Pat,
Alan and I were deeply saddened to learn of the loss of your wonderful husband. George was such a fine, warm Christian man and a real inspiration to those who had the privilege of knowing him. He touched many lives by his loving kindness.
I feel I got to know him best at our retreats when you were at Bruton Parish and I feel fortunate to have had that experience.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Carolyn Graetz
July 19, 2009
July 19, 2009
Dear Pat, Indeed I share a feeling of loss for you and your family. So glad we were able to get together in 2007. Carolyn Noah Graetz, Nursing School Classmate of Pat's.
Tina, Mark, and Lindsay Buchanan
July 19, 2009
Dear Pat, David, Heidi, and Holly,
We're so very sorry for the loss of this great man. The time I had the honor of knowing or working with such a wonderful, Godly man, was much too brief, however, I treasured every minute of it. I can, without question, say I'm a better person for having known George and being touched by his gentle soul. Our love and prayers are with all of you during this very difficult time. We will never forget him!
Dee
July 19, 2009
Pat, I am so sorry for your family's loss. You and George were absolutely a wonderful example of a loving couple working together. You two did such a good job keeping up with the best treatments and the best of everything. Thank you for being living examples of a caring, loving couple working together until the end. We will miss talking to you. God bless you and yours.
Dee--Riverside Hospital Lab
Terry Morris
July 19, 2009
Mrs Pat,my thoughts and prayers are with you at this time and always. Mr George was a wonderful inspiration to me. Always a ray of sunshine when he entered the room. I will miss him so much as i know you will. He will always hold a special place in my heart. Take care and God bless. Terry,RRMC LAB
P.J. RIVERRSIDE LAB
July 19, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Judy Moyer
July 19, 2009
While my association with George Helfrich was much less than I would have liked, I was impressed with this Godly and thoughtful man. Our community has lost a most valuable player.
July 19, 2009
Dear Pat,
I am sorry to learn of George's death and your loss. I have many fond memories of you and George at First English Lutheran in New Oreleans--in plays, in volleyball, in shuffle board,etc. I will send you a note.
Fred Giraud, St. Louis, Mo.
Cheryl Stutesman
July 19, 2009
Dear Pat,David and family,
My heart goes out to you.
My thoughts and prayers are with you. I'm just down the street,so if their is any task I can handle for you at this time,Please let me know.
Ed Prior
July 19, 2009
I worked with George on many problems during my career at NASA and he was always ready to help, his advice was the best and he was that rare type you could always trust. He was also a great guy and knew how to deal with people and with the many bureaucrats and engineers he ran into at NASA. I am sad to see him leave us and my thoughts are with his family.
Ed Prior, July 19, 2009
July 19, 2009
I worked at BASF with Mr. Helfrich. He was one of the finest men I ever knew. I grieve both his battle with cancer and his death. My deepest sympathies to you ... his family.
Ann Ward
yaprak markeset
July 19, 2009
Dear Helfrich family, i am very sorry that you lost your dad - he was a very kind & peaceful person - i wish i was there in person to help - many hugs from Yaprak, Karl & Ozan Markeset
Birgit Wolff
July 19, 2009
Dear Pat,
in our minds and our prayers we will be with you now and on July 22nd.
We are grateful to have spent a wonderful time with you and George.
Chritian, Birgit and Justus
from Germany
Felicitas (Flee) Willems
July 19, 2009
Dear loving Pat, David, Holly and Heidi,
I am sending you love, strength, courage, and warmth at this difficult and sad time. The world has lost an angel. George's spirit will remain in so many hearts and minds. He touched so many people and I am extremely grateful that I was able to experience on just a few but very memorable occasions his gentleness, humanity, wisdom, graciousness, and care. It was wonderfully fortunate to sit next to you that night at Wolftrap and to have been embraced by your family. George has taken a little bit of all us with him and I take comfort that he is not alone. I wished I could be there with you to offer support. I send you all my love,
Mike, Paula, and Patricia after receiving her PhD at IU
Michael Hardwick
July 19, 2009
Paula and I are deeply saddened to hear of George's passing. He was a great friend. We both met Pat and George on a cruise and became instant friends. Paula has terminal bone cancer and has been fighting it now for nine years. She and George had a lot in common in their fight for life, and George was indeed an inspiration. In this difficult time, our prayers are for George and Pat and his extended family. We both just want to say, George, thanks for being who you were and a great friend to us both. Pat, we will miss him a lot... and you can take great comfort in the love you both shared for many years.
Paula and Mike Hardwick
Santa Barbara, California
July 19, 2009
Heather Forrest
July 19, 2009
With deepest sympathies on the passing of a most influential teacher, from a student who is forever touched by George's life and wisdom.
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