Avon Obituary: Brendan Helberg, 24

Brendan Helberg of San Francisco, California, unexpectedly passed away on Friday, September 30th.

He leaves behind his parents, Rick and Melon Helberg of Newington, his big brother, Conor, of Boise, Idaho, his Nana, Margaret Berry, of Warwick, NY and his Pop and Grandma, Stanley and Barbara Helberg of Newington. He also leaves behind many wonderful and supportive aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Brendan was born and raised in Newington. He was very proud of his life in Connecticut. Brendan was a recent graduate of the University of Connecticut. He was extremely honored to have graduated from Avon Old Farms prep school where he played hockey and lacrosse as well as sang as a member of the Riddlers. Brendan will forever be one of the "Men of Avon." He continued his education at Sacred Heart University where he was a goalie for the lacrosse team. After an injury, Brendan transferred to the University of Connecticut where he continued to play lacrosse and was a co-captain of the 2015 championship team.

Bren had a soft spot in his heart for all animals, especially his Irish Wolfhound, Breeda, and our cats, Dora and Leyla. He would often visit the CT Humane Society. Brendan will be remembered for his kindness, compassion, and love of life. He began his life's journey with a dream and a plan, accomplishing everything he wanted. No one will ever know Brendan's true potential or what other marks he would have made in this world.

We cherish our son, are devastated that he left us too early, and will always miss him immensely. Rest in peace, son. We will love you forever and hold you in our hearts for all time.

Brendan's life and funeral will be celebrated on Saturday, October 8, at 10:00 AM, meeting directly at Church of the Holy Spirit, 183 Church St. Newington, with Rites of Committal following the Mass at Fairview Cemetery in New Britain. Relatives and friends are welcome to call for visitation on Friday from 4:00 until 8:00 PM at Duksa Family Funeral Homes at Newington Memorial, 20 Bonair Avenue, Newington.

Contributions in his memory may be directed to the CT Humane Society, 701 Russell Road, Newington, CT 06111.