Colleen Ann Hellickson

Colleen Ann Hellickson
July 14, 1951 - November 24, 2024
Colleen Hellickson, age 73, of Rosemount passed away peacefully at M Health University Hospital in Minneapolis on Sunday November 24th, 2024 after a long battle with cancer. She is preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Jean.
She is survived by her husband of 50 years, Jerry; daughters Lisa Hellickson and Katie (Josh) Colbeck; sons Mike (Bea) Hellickson
and Scott Hellickson; grandchildren Ellie Hellickson, Tom Hellickson, C.C. Hellickson, Eric Hellickson, Colette Colbeck and Kellan Colbeck; sisters Mary Gaughan and Susan Cunningham; many nieces, nephews and friends.
Colleen was born on July 14, 1951 in St. Paul, MN to Paul and Agnes Cunningham and was one of four daughters raised in their Merriam Park neighborhood home. She attended nearby St. Mark's School and graduated in 1969 from Our Lady of Peace High School.
On May 19, 1972 she met Jerry Hellickson. Colleen and Jerry were married on February 2, 1974 and enjoyed 50 years of marriage together. They initially lived in St. Paul before building a home in Rosemount where they raised their four children.
In 1988, Colleen opened their home to become a daycare provider. She cared for many children over the next 25 years. Those who knew her well know that she had her family and her daycare families and she cherished both.
In retirement, Colleen enjoyed spending time with her family and friends–especially her six grandchildren who were always excited to see her. She also enjoyed watching a lot of QVC (to find gifts for her grandchildren, of course).
Colleen was diagnosed with cancer 18 years ago and subsequently underwent chemotherapy, radiation, and numerous surgeries. Throughout these years she battled bravely with endless courage and positivity. Even in her last few years when she experienced chronic pain on a daily
basis she kept fighting to enjoy each day with her family and friends. She will be remembered for her generosity, kindness, and humor in the face of immense physical hardship–a true example of how to live life to the fullest no matter the circumstances.
In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to be sent to M Health Fairview Oncology Services Fund: makingagift.umn.edu
Visitation
Tuesday, December 3, 2024 from 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
White Funeral Home - Apple Valley
14560 Pennock Ave
Apple Valley, Minnesota 55124
Funeral Service
Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at 11:00 AM
St. Joseph Catholic Church
13900 Biscayne Ave. W.
Rosemount, MN 55068
Visitation 1 hr prior to service