MICHAEL P. HELGESEN

MICHAEL P. HELGESEN

     Michael P. Helgesen, 79, of Black River Falls, WI, passed away peacefully Jan. 28, 2024, at Black River Memorial Hospital with his family by his side. Michael Paul Helgesen was born May 15, 1944, in Minneapolis, MN, to Paul and Hermoine (Kolstad) Helgesen.

     At age 17, Michael enlisted in the United States Navy, serving as a corpsman from 1961 to 1965. He was honorably discharged in 1965. He also served as a medic with the Minnesota National Guard from 1986 to 1990. Michael attended the Universities of Kentucky, Illinois, and Wisconsin where he studied American literature, chemistry and education.

     He became a home school coordinator, offering counseling services in Dunn, Chippewa and Eau Claire counties in Wisconsin, eventually becoming the program director. From 1978 to 1980 Michael and his wife, Ernestine, operated a group home for adolescents near Black River Falls, WI. In the early 1980s, Michael worked at the Wazee Half-Way house in Black River Falls, WI. Michael taught history, literature and mathematics at the Black River Falls High School.  Michael also taught elementary school in Auberndale.

     Michael joined the Paige Donnelly law firm after graduating from William Mitchell College of Law in 1987. Michael became an active member of the Minnesota Association for Justice, acting on the Board of Governors and lecturing on legal issues. Michael was admitted to practice in the states of Minnesota and Wisconsin and in Minnesota and Wisconsin Federal District Courts. Michael was chosen as a Super Lawyer by Minnesota Law & Politics and Minneapolis-St. Paul Magazines. The Paige Donnelley Ltd team, where he practiced until his retirement in 2020, truly became family to him.

     Michael loved family immensely and worked hard to make the world a better place for all families.  In addition to raising his family and operating a group home, Michael raised many more children, including through adoption and foster care, all of whom call him Jaaji (dad).

     Michael married Ernestine Mike Jan. 28, 1972, in Austin, MN. His father, Paul, a justice of the peace, served as officiant and his mother as witness.

     Michael is remembered by Ernestine; sons Kunu Helgesen and Branden Helgesen; daughters Hinu (Rick) Smith, Wehuh Helgesen, Karen (Theodore) Soret and Laura (Laurence) Spencer; brother John (Marylin) Helgesen; grandchildren Winter, Othyaun, Desmond and RickiLee Smith and Kora and Leo Cloud; cherished 100-year-old aunt Mona Mae; six great-grandchildren; special cousins, nieces and nephews; and Stephanie, Veronica and Cheyenne Yellowbank.

     Michael was preceded in death by his parents; sister Mary Draayer; an infant brother, Patrick; and other special relatives.

     A visitation was held Jan. 30, 2024, at Buswell Funeral Home from 5 to 7 p.m. with a family viewing at 4 p.m. Funeral services were Jan. 31, 2024, at the Dells Dam Community Building, W7015 Bush Rd, Neillsville, at 12 p.m., with visitation from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Interment was in the Dewey Mike Cemetery with lunch following.