Arral "AJ" Helgerson

Arral "AJ" Helgerson, 81, Grand Forks, died Sunday, January 20, 2013 at Altru Hospital. AJ was born November 28, 1931 in Inwood, IA, the son of Alvin and Ida Helgerson. AJ spent most of his formative years in the Sioux Falls, SD area. He graduated from Washington High School and attended Augustana College in Sioux Falls. AJ entered the Marine Corps in 1952. He married Donna McNamara on August 8, 1953 in Sioux Falls. Following the Marine Corps, AJ worked for F.W. Woolworth Company and was transferred to Grand Forks, ND in 1960. In January 1965, he joined the Vaaler Insurance agency, working there until his retirement in 1992. AJ touched his children and others with his honesty and integrity. AJ was a member of the First Presbyterian Church. He was involved in many leadership positions there and also with many community organizations. AJ cherished his time at his Minnesota lake cottage where he created a wonderful gathering place for his family, friends and dogs. AJ is survived by his wife of 59 years, Donna, children Jeff (Paula) Helgerson, Brooklyn Center, MN, Pam (Brian) Whalen, Grand Forks, ND, Tracy (Vince) Abentroth, Grand Forks, ND, David (Beth) Helgerson, Neenah, WI; grandchildren Tom, Anne and Carrie Helgerson; Jenny, Emily and Robert Whalen; Aimee and Matthew (Sarah) Abentroth; Brooke and Paige Helgerson; great-grandchildren Alex and Logan McClimon, and Avery Abentroth. AJ was preceded in death by his parents, son-in-law Greg Sande, and grandson Jon Abentroth. Memorials are preferred to First Presbyterian Church, 5555 South Washington Street, Grand Forks, ND. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, January 24, 2013 at 11:00 AM in the First Presbyterian Church, 5555 South Washington Street, Grand Forks, ND. Visitation will be Wednesday from 5 to 7 PM all in the First Presbyterian Church.