Bernard James Helget

Bernard James Helget passed away December 19, 2024 at the Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan. Bernard was born on November 2, 1936 to Albert Edward and Ella Frances (Platz) Helget in Manhattan. On September 24, 1960, Bernard was united in marriage to Virginia M. Smith. They raised 8 children and enjoyed 53 years together before Virginia’s passing in 2014.

Bernard graduated from high school at the Luckey High School/Sacred Heart Academy in 1954. Bernard entered the United States Army and served in Germany during the post-World War II era. Following his return, he went to work for the United States Postal Service, where he worked until his retirement. In all, he dedicated over 40 years of his life as a federal employee, his military service included. 

Bernard is survived by his children, Rusty (Dianna) Helget, of Uniontown, Pat (Ardel) Helget, of Delphos, Mike Helget, of Keats, Jim (Firma) Helget, of Hays, Andy (Rebekah) Helget, of Minneapolis, Connie (John) Jackson, of Topeka, Ginny (Michael) Helget, of Wamego, Joe (Randi) Helget, of Ottawa, Kansas. He is also survived by his 17 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, and his loyal companion, ‘Missy.'

He was a devoted husband and father, a hard worker, and a devout Catholic. Bernard was an avid outdoorsman and he shared this love with his kids and grandkids. He enjoyed fishing and hunting. For many years, he was the Kansas state record turkey holder. 

Bernard was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia, his parents, his brothers, Dennis and Eugene Helget, and his sister, Delores (Dodi) Frost. 

A visitation will be held at Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, 1317 Poyntz Avenue Manhattan, KS 66502, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, December 27. Family will be present to receive visitors. A rosary will follow at 7:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:30 a.m, Saturday, December 28, at the St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Manhattan. Burial with military honors will follow at the Sunset Cemetery in Manhattan. 

Memorials in Bernard’s honor may be made to the Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice, Manhattan, in care of the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home.