Arthur Helgeson, age 82, of Erskine, MN, died Monday, May 21, 2012 at First Care Medical Services in Fosston, MN.

Arthur LeRoy Helgeson was born August 5, 1929 at home in rural Bejou, MN, to Albert and Ella (Brekhus) Helgeson. Growing up, he attended country school and graduated from the Agricultural College in Crookston, MN. Art entered the United States Army and served during the Korean Conflict. Following an honorable discharge, he worked as a mechanic in Southern Minnesota and Wisconsin before returning to the area. Upon returning to the Bejou area, Arthur began his career as a carpenter. He worked for Paul Roux and later the Bakke brothers for many years. Upon their retirement, Art still took on smaller jobs he could complete himself. After moving from the farm near Bejou, Art made his home in Winger, MN, until his failing health required him to move into the Pioneer Memorial Care Center in Erskine in the Spring of 2009.

Art was a faithful member of Norman Lutheran Church until it closed followed by Faaberg Lutheran Church. He truly enjoyed being around people and visiting with everyone. Much of his free time was spent playing cards or tending to his large garden. Arthur also held a membership with the Winger American Legion Fengestad-Solie Post #200.

Surviving Art are two brothers, Walter (Mabel) Helgeson of Bejou, and Omar (Janice) Helgeson of Fertile; two sisters, Effie Smith of Mora, MN, and Evelyn (Herbert) Kliem of Houston, TX; and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, and four brothers: Sander, Millard, Lester and Victor.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm, on Thursday, May 24, 2012 at Pioneer Memorial Care Center in Erskine. There will be visitation one hour prior to the service on Thursday at the care center.

Interment will be at Norman Cemetery, rural Gary, MN.