Kenneth Paul Helisek

Kenneth Paul Helisek, 80, died Sunday, September 30, 2012 at the NYS Veterans Home in Oxford. He was predeceased by his parents, Paul B. and Josephine (Nemec) Helisek. Ken Is survived by his faithful and loving wife, Anna B. Helisek and cousins Fred and Irene Sabacek, Vestal and Barbara Beckman, Maryland. Ken became an Eagle Scout at age 15. He attended Johnson City High School and was a member of the undefeated 1948 and 1949 football teams. Ken played varsity baseball and was Section IV diving champion. He attended Hartwick College on a football scholarship and also lettered in track and tennis. In high school, college, the army and law school he played trumpet in dance bands and “combos”. Ken was an army veteran serving overseas during the Korean Conflict. He completed his undergraduate education at the University of Maryland before graduating from Syracuse Law School in 1958. Ken practiced law in the Broome County area for 51 years and specialized in trial work, i.e., criminal, vehicle, traffic law, domestic relations and personal injury cases with his partner of 35 years, Fred Conte and ultimately in private practice retiring in 2009. On his return to the Binghamton area he played volleyball with the Binghamton “Y” varsity and played in eight nationals. Ken and Chuck Durgin founded the Oquaga Lake Sailing Club, which was in existence for 31 years. He was a charter captain for eight sailing trips in most of the Caribbean. Ken was a dedicated big game hunter with 17 trips to the western states, Canada and Newfoundland. Anna and Ken traveled extensively to Europe visiting Holland, Switzerland, Austria, the Scandinavian countries, the Eastern European countries and Russia.  They also did the Alaskan, Panama Canal, Australian and New Zeeland tours. Ken was a very aggressive person who always competed on the highest levels. His friend, Amherst professor, William H. Pritchard was his lifelong mentor. Ken was also an International Lions Club member for more than 50 years, serving as president with the Binghamton club and was a Melvin Jones fellow, the highest award in Lionism. At Ken’s request there will be no services. Memorial contributions in his memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, 13 Beech Street, Johnson City, NY 13790 or a charity of your choice. To forward condolences please visit www.demunnfh.com.                          “Charity is the rent one pays for his place on earth.”                                                                                     -KPH