Thomas Edwin Helquist

Tom was born September 19, 1945 to Harry and Myrtle Helquist.

He graduated from Proctor High School in 1963. He married Karon Bailey, April 22, 1967. Together they raised three children, the pride and joys of his life.

Tom retired from the DMIR/CN Railroad after 42 years of service. He served on the Proctor Volunteer Fire Department for 48 years and two months, where he was the Assistant Chief for over 25 years.

After high school, he played semi-pro hockey for the Hibbing Flyers, Eveleth Rangers and Duluth Hornets. He coached youth hockey and little league baseball for many years. He was involved in forming the Proctor Blueline Club.

Tom was an avid golfer. He enjoyed many fishing trips with family and friends. He was a huge fan of Proctor Rails sports, MN Twins, MN Vikings and MN Wild. He loved going to the races and watching Darrell Nelson #44. He also enjoyed NASCAR racing and Dale Earnhardt.

Tom enjoyed spending time with his family. He lived for family vacations and watching his grandchildren’s sporting events and activities. He also enjoyed his weekly dinners at the Buffalo House.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Lois Kramer; brother, Richard Helquist; and father-in-law, Floyd Bailey.

He will be sadly missed by his wife of 48 years, Karon; his son, Kerry (Jen Humphreys); daughters, Kami (Derek) Parendo, Kelli (Jesse) Annala; and his five treasured lil chiefs: Samantha, Vivianne, Preslie, Sophia and Cooper; nephews, Mike (Lorraine) and Rick (Diane) Kramer; mother-in-law, Joyce Bailey; sisters-in-law, June (Paul) Sullivan and Kandi (Rich) Zinter; lifelong friend, John Dardis; close friend, Ells Lind; and his lab, Malibu.

A special thanks to Dr. Sande, Diana, Jeanne and other Staff from Essentia Oncology and Hospice.

Visitation: 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, November 4th in Bell Brothers Funeral Home, 601 N. 56th Ave. W., Duluth. The visitation will continue from 10:00 until the 11:00 a.m. Funeral Service Thurs, November 5, 2015 in Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 701 3rd Ave., Proctor.