Richard Stockton Helffrich, M.D.

Madison- Richard Stockton Helffrich M.D., age 68, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 25, 2011 at the HospiceCare Center in Fitchburg following a brief battle with cancer.  He was born in Elmhurst, NY on December 6, 1942, the son of Stockton and Dolores (Faerber) Helffrich.  Richard graduated from Penn State University.  He attended Medical School at Temple University.  Richard enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served as a Lieutenant.  Following his honorable discharge he worked as a physician for many different hospitals with the majority of his time spent in Altoona, Pennsylvania.  Richard then worked for the VA Hospital in Tuscaloosa, Alabama for two years before moving to Madison to be close to his mother.  He retired from medicine and began to work for the U.S. Post Office where he met his future wife.  On January 3, 2009 he married Laurie Jacobson.  Richard enjoyed working at the post office on Milwaukee Street and volunteered in many capacities including the Monona Coalition, homeless shelters, the ""Toe Clinic"" at Lake Edge Lutheran Church in Monona and the Literacy Network.  Richard had a strong faith and attended church regularly.  He is survived by his wife, Laurie; his beloved cat, Spike; son, Jeff (Michelle) of State College, PA; mother, Dolores; sister, Jackie Austin; two step-brothers, Richard (Barbara) and Scott Krauser; half brother, John (Mei Mikita ) Helffrich; and many relatives and friends.  Richard was preceded in death by his father; an infant sister, Carla; and several beloved cats, including Aurora and Autumn.  Memorial services will be held at 4:00 PM on Sunday, January 30, 2011 at West Koshkonong Lutheran Church, 1911 Koshkonong Road, with Rev. Richard Dowling officiating.  Burial, with full Military Honors, will follow in the church cemetery.  Friends and relatives are invited to a luncheon following the burial in the church fellowship hall.  Friends may greet the family from 3:00 PM until the time of services Sunday.  A special thank you to HospiceCare Inc. and to Pastor Dowling, for all their love and support.  The will of God will never take me to a place where the Grace of God will not protect me.