Helge was born in Hen, Norway to Ole and Mathea Heen. After the German occupation of Norway during the 2nd world war, he served in the Norwegian Brigade posted in Germany.
Helge loved his family. He was a member of the “The Gentleman’s Tennis” in Geneseo, NY. Skiing was his passion. He skied not only locally but in the mountains of Colorado, Norway, Switzerland and Austria where he won many trophies. He loved our frequent trips to Norway to visit his extended family.
After his military service, he studied engineering at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich, Switzerland where he earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering.He earned the Degree Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering at MIT followed by a Doctorate. He was employed at Eastman Kodak in research and design. During his career he worked on the development of the surveillance cameras for airplanes and satellites. These cameras were built for the United States Military on contract with Kodak’s well as the cameras for the Lunar Orbiter which mapped the Moon in preparation for Apollo landings in the 1960s.
Helge is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years, Leslie Wehrheim Heen, Daughter Sara Scondras [Peter], Daughter Kristina Heen [Matt], Stepson William Clune [Rula], Grandson Lee De La Vergne [Hannah], Granddaughter Julia Ast [Ryan], Great Grandsons Avery and Gavin. Predeceased are Son Leif Heen, Daughter Heidi Heen
Stepdaughter Jennifer Clune, and former Wife Martha Wadsworth.
Helge’s family would like to express their appreciation to the Jewish Home of Rochester for their sincere, caring and professional staff.
Celebration of life and following reception will be Saturday, April 1, 2023 at 1:00 PM at Edgewood Free Methodist Church, 111 E Jefferson Rd, Pittsford, NY 14534. No prior calling hours.
Memorials may be made to the Genesee Valley Conservancy, Geneseo, NY.
Leslie, and family: You certainly have my condolences on your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.