Virginia “Ginger” Ann Helgeson, age 68, of Kenosha, passed away on October 18th, 2024, at her residence surrounded by her loving family. She was born on December 15th, 1955, to the late Arthur McIntosh and Ruth (McKay) McIntosh in Oak Creek, WI. She spent many happy years with her beloved partner Phil Haney and was with him until the day she passed away.
For several years, she worked at U.W. Parkside as the first female editor of “The Ranger” school newspaper and the director of the Woman’s Center. She later went on to work for the Women’s and Children’s Horizon and the Kenosha Human Development Services where she was known for her many years of dedication and service to her community. Ginger was extremely passionate about helping victims of sexual assault and domestic violence and dedicated her life to her work. She was proud to have created and run the after school programs for Armitage Academy in Library Park and was also awarded the David Wagner award in 2012 for her distinguished skills and commitment to social work. Her community will remember and miss her for her outstanding dedication and commitment to helping others.
She is survived by her partner of 25 years: Phil Haney, children: Thorbjorn Helgeson and Ani Spoerlein (Curt), grandchildren: Zoe (Josh Foster) Carver, Cieran Carver, Fitch Spoerlein, Ava Carver, Oscar Arnold-Nessel, Jamie Putman, Madison Irwin, Jordan Klopotic (Ryan), Abby Robbins, Logan Robbins (Nina), great grandchildren: Luxana, Hadley, Oscar, Viktor, Lucy and Jace stepchildren: Veronica Scott (Patrick), Gina Metz (Scott) and Matt Arnold (Jen Nessel) and siblings: Cheryl McDermott and Lynn (Bob) Rhynas. She is preceded in death by her parents.
To celebrate Ginger’s life, a visitation with the family will take place on November 22nd from 2 to 4 P.M. at the Kenosha Human Development Services community room (3536 52nd st.). A church service will take place on December 15th, at Bradford Community Church with more details to follow.
