Glenwood Springs Mourns Loss of Sten Otto Helling

$0 - that's what Sten Otto Helling's family will spend on a funeral, as he specifically requested not to have one. This decision reflects the practical and understated nature of the man, who passed away on April 26, 2026, after a long battle with cancer. For context, Helling's life was marked by a series of remarkable achievements, from his distinguished career as a high-level executive with Volvo, Saab, and Mercedes-Benz, to his passion for skiing and golf, which brought him to Colorado.

Let's do the math - 158 trips from Europe to the USA is a staggering number, and it's a reflection of Helling's dedication to his work and his love of travel. On paper, his career may have seemed like a series of impressive milestones, but in practice, it was the people and experiences that made it truly meaningful. Helling's family and friends will remember his kindness, intelligence, and dry humor, as well as his calm dignity in the face of adversity.

As a member of the Glenwood Springs Golf Club, Helling was able to pursue golf with enthusiasm. He was even invited to play at Augusta National several times, a testament to his skill and dedication to the game. However, I will rephrase: Helling's skill and dedication to golf earned him invitations to play at prestigious courses like Augusta National. For locals, it's worth noting that Helling played a role in introducing Saab vehicles to the Aspen and Vail police departments, a move that showcased his professional expertise.

Helling's life was not without its challenges, however. He faced a long and courageous battle with cancer, and his family will undoubtedly feel the loss of his presence deeply. In Glenwood Springs, where Helling made his home with his wife Pat, he will be remembered as a wonderful person and a bright light in the community. His connection to Sunlight Mountain Resort, the Hot Springs Pool, and the local golf club was evident to all who knew him. He remained active in these pursuits until the age of 85, demonstrating a remarkable commitment to the activities that brought him joy.

For the community, Helling's passing is a reminder of the importance of living life to the fullest, as he did. His legacy will live on through his family, including his wife Pat, his son Johan, his daughter Christine, and his grandchildren Julia, Olivia, and twins Anders and Maia. As we reflect on Helling's life, it's clear that his impact will be felt for years to come, and his memory will be cherished by all who knew him.

In terms of his personal life, Helling's story is one of love, family, and adventure. He married his first wife Ewa in 1965, and together they had two children and were married for 33 years until her death in 1998. Later, he married Pat Helling (Bolin) in 2005, and they made their home in Glenwood Springs. Through it all, Helling remained committed to his Swedish heritage, even as he became a US citizen and made a new life for himself in America.

The practical bottom line is that Helling's family will not have to bear the expense of a funeral, as he specifically requested not to have one. Instead, they will be able to focus on celebrating his life and legacy, and honoring his memory in their own way. For folks around here, it's a reminder that even in death, our choices and decisions can have a lasting impact on those we love.