CUMBERLAND, April 6 – Alton Oliver Helgeson, 76, of Cumberland, passed away Friday evening, April 2, 2010 in Richmond. He was born October 12, 1933 in Bagley, Minnesota, a son of the late Henry and Olga Helgeson. He retired from the United States Navy as Chief Petty Officer after serving 28 years. He earned numerous medals including seven good conduct medals serving his country.

He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Z. Helgeson; three sons, Jay Helgeson and Robert Helgeson and wife, Jane all of Virginia Beach and Bruce Zirkle of Cumberland; a daughter, Amy Zirkle Warlitner and husband, Scott of Cumberland; grandchildren, Brittany Nicole Helgeson of South Carolina, Ian Cole Helgeson of Virginia Beach and E.B. Zirkle Jr. of Cumberland. He was preceded in death by his brother, Hunter Helgeson.
A memorial service will be held Tuesday, April 6, at 7 p.m. at the chapel of Puckett Funeral Home with interment to be held in Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.

Family will receive friends Tuesday evening (tonight) from 5-7 p.m. before the memorial service at the funeral home.

Please consider donations to the Cumberland Volunteer Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 171, Cumberland, VA 23040.

Puckett Funeral Home, Farmville, is in charge of arrangements.

www.puckettfh.com