Obituary of Craig Helgeson

Craig Helgeson, age 60, passed away April 12, 2013 at his home. Craig was born November 13, 1952 in Eugene, Oregon to Harris and Nellie Helgeson.Craig lived in the Eugene area his entire life, graduating from North Eugene High School. He served in the US Navy aboard the USS Saratoga, receiving the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Vietnam Campaign Medal. At the time of his death he was employed by A&K Development, Eugene, as a millwright.Craig enjoyed music and reading. He always knew he was much more intelligent than his three siblings, and never passed up a chance to remind them of that fact. Craig was a fierce defender of human and animal rights.Craig loved, and was loved by, a small black Pug named Stewie that he co-parented with his close friend, Becca. They enjoyed many hours together walking at the dog park and exploring the banks of the Willamette River. Stewie was with Craig during the final minutes of his life, the knowledge of which gave comfort to his family. The family wishes to express their gratitude to Becca for loving Craig and giving him joy and laughter.Craig is survived by his sister Carol Helgeson Lutz and her husband Mike of Medford, Oregon, sister Janet Helgeson Tokich and her husband Willie of Eugene, Oregon, and brother Kevin Helgeson and his wife Pam of Eugene, Oregon; also nephews Jason, Tyler, Drew, niece Kendra, and numerous cousins.At Craig’s request, no memorial service is planned. A family memorial gathering will take place sometime this summer. Memorial contributions may be made to the Greenhill Humane Society, Eugene, Oregon.Arrangements by Musgrove Family Mortuary in Eugene.