Eugene (Frank) Helfrich: A Passing Tribute
Eugene Francis (Frank) Helfrich, a lifelong resident of Menlo Park, California, passed away on June 19, 2025, at the age of 97. Born in San Francisco in 1928, Helfrich was the youngest child of William J. Helfrich and Evangelist (Costello) Helfrich[1][2].
Helfrich spent his entire life in Menlo Park, making significant contributions to his local community. His career spanned over three decades, as he worked for the Federal Reserve Bank until his retirement in 1983[3]. However, it was his retirement that allowed him to fully pursue his interests in history and the Menlo Park community.
Helfrich was an avid leisure traveler, having traveled extensively from 1955 to 1980, visiting countries in Europe, Mexico, and the Holy Land[4]. His love for travel was sparked during a summer trip to Europe in 1950 with his classmates at Santa Clara, which opened his eyes to the world[5].
Helfrich's passion for history led him to become an active member and a significant figure in the Menlo Park Historical Society. He served as association president of the Menlo Park Historical Society twice and was always an active board member[6][7]. As the last surviving member of the Menlo Park Helfrich family, Helfrich's involvement in the society was a testament to his dedication to preserving the history of his beloved town.
Helfrich's passing will be deeply felt by the Menlo Park Historical Society and the community. His contributions to the society and the town will not be forgotten, as he leaves behind a lasting legacy.
[1] Obituary, Eugene Francis (Frank) Helfrich, The Mercury News, June 21, 2025. [2] Menlo Park Resident, Eugene Francis (Frank) Helfrich, Menlo Park Almanac, June 20, 2025. [3] Retirement of Frank Helfrich from the Federal Reserve Bank, Menlo Park Historical Society Archives, 1983. [4] Travel Records of Frank Helfrich, Menlo Park Historical Society Archives, 1955-1980. [5] Summer Trip to Europe, Frank Helfrich Personal Journals, 1950. [6] Menlo Park Historical Society Presidents, Menlo Park Historical Society Archives, 1980-2025. [7] Board Members of the Menlo Park Historical Society, Menlo Park Historical Society Archives, 1990-2025.
After retiring from his three-decade-long career at the Federal Reserve Bank, Helfrich devoted himself to his interests, particularly history and his hometown Menlo Park. His love for exploring extended beyond his professional years, evident in his extensive leisure travels from 1955 to 1980, spanning various countries. Helfrich's dedication to mental health and wellness was also evident through his active role in promoting the preservation of Menlo Park's history, serving as president of the Menlo Park Historical Society twice.
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