Obituary of Russell J. Helsens

Russell J. Helsens, of Hamden formerly of Jamestown, North Carolina, passed away early Saturday morning March 20, 2021 at his home following a long illness.

Born on February 3, 1938 in Central Falls, RI, Russell was the son of the late George R. and Demerise M. (Trudeau) Helsens.

He proudly served in the US Army at Fort Knox in Kentucky with the 50th armored division.

Russell worked as a boiler mechanic for Givadaun in Clifton, NJ and retired to North Carolina. He had a mechanical gift for fixing and building things, earning the title of Mr. Fix-It from his family and friends.  He enjoyed gardening, collecting things and was an animal lover.

Besides his parents, Russell was predeceased by his wife: Joan.

He is survived by four children: Ruth Helsens of Franklin, NJ, Russell Helsens of Wharton, NJ, Rodney Helsens of Hamden, NY and Jill Helsens of Wantage, NJ; nine grandchildren: Jarrod and Meagan Kann, Hannah Long, Gloria, Max, Chloe and Owen Helsens, Thomas and Todd Coranoto; great-grandson: Greyson Ottaviano; brother: George Helsens; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Services and burial will be held at Hickory Grove UMC Cemetery, Jamestown, NC at a later date.

Please visit www.hallandpeet.com  to share a condolence with Russell’s family