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BORN

1955

DIED

2018

Barbara Helgesen Obituary

Barbara Ellen Helgesen

Dec. 14, 1955 – Feb. 17, 2018

Barbara Helgesen passed away at her home in Foster City, California. Barbara's smile was contagious, her heart always full, and her love of animals paramount. She will be remembered with love by all those blessed to be touched by her presence.

Barbara was born in San Mateo, California, to Robert and Jeanette Helgesen and attended Hillsdale High School, where she returned on occasion in later years to participate in the Old Knights luncheons. Barbara graduated from what is now University of West Georgia in Carrollton, Georgia, where she also developed many life-long friendships. Barbara returned to the Peninsula and worked at several software companies before her favorite job came along at Sugo Music. Barbara also enjoyed all things sports. Since Barbara was born the same year as Disneyland's construction, there is a theory that she may have been a twin of Disneyland, somehow separated at birth. Barbara's passion was helping others, especially those with a permanent fur coat. One of Barbara's many aspirations was to be more involved in the no-kill animal shelters she contributed to financially.

Barbara is survived by her partner, Brent MacQueen; brother, Robert Helgesen (Mary); nieces Kelsey and Zoe; "godchildren" Leanne, Jillian, Shelly, Zach, Josh, and Suzanne; "grand-godchildren" Kinley and Elliot, and her cat, Beach.

Friends and family are invited to a pet-friendly "Love You More" celebration of Barbara's life on Saturday, April 28th, at the Half Moon Bay Yacht Club (214 Princeton Ave, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019). The celebration will commence at 11AM with an informal brunch and will continue with a program of speakers and music from noon to 1PM. All are welcome. Due to regulations regarding the Yacht Club, an RSVP is required to [email protected] or 650-918-2136. Preferred attire should include flip-flops and anything Disney or Bay Area sports. Also note that parking is limited, so carpooling is encouraged.

Barbara's ashes will be spread at sea, per her wishes, at a later date. Please consider donations to no-kill animal shelters as a tribute to Barbara. As a suggestion, see: https://bestfriends.org/about-best-friends.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Francisco Chronicle from Apr. 13 to Apr. 15, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
for Barbara Helgesen

Not sure what to say?





Debra J Russell (Markoff)

April 24, 2023

So sad to hear of the passing of my first best friend. We lived next door to one another in San Mateo CA. My family moved to San Francisco and I missed my friend for years to come. Rest in peace dear Barbara.

Mona Helgesen-Biehl

April 7, 2021

I remember Cousin Barbara visiting us and how much she loved our pets. She was so kind to animals.

1978 West GA graduation

Biddy Cassard Labutka

April 20, 2018

One of many camping trips

Biddy Cassard Labutka

April 20, 2018

Biddy Cassard Labutka

April 20, 2018

1982 lake Worth

Biddy Cassard Labutka

April 20, 2018

1976

Biddy Cassard Labutka

April 20, 2018

1976

Biddy Cassard Labutka

April 20, 2018

1980 San Fran

Biddy Cassard Labutka

April 20, 2018

Mona Biehl

April 18, 2018

My condolences to you, Cousin Rob. RIP Cousin Barbara. Mona Helgesen Biehl

Showing 1 - 10 of 10 results

Make a Donation
in Barbara Helgesen's name

Memorial Events
for Barbara Helgesen

Apr

28

Memorial Gathering

11:00 a.m.

Half Moon Bay Yacht Club

RSVP required to [email protected] or 650-918-2136, Half Moon Bay, CA

Apr

28

Celebration of Life

12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Half Moon Bay Yacht Club

RSVP required to [email protected] or 650-918-2136, Half Moon Bay, CA

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