Carlie T. Helgerson - RIP - By: Donna M. Helgerson Article Reprint from the October 2001 BluesNotes      Blues in History Index

    Carlie T. Helgerson died on September 7th, 11 days short of his 59th birthday.  A CBA member and a true Bluesman, he believed in the universe - that there was only "one song".  Otis Rush, his latest "all time favorite", Little Walter, Muddy Waters and even Hank Williams Sr., he loved. Of course, Mel Soloman, his best friend, was his favorite vocalist. "The best singer on the West Coast;" he said.

    He was with Norman Sylvester's first band for three years. They opened for Tower Of  Power and James Cotton at the old Starry Night. His last jams were with Norman at the Candlelight and Mel at Hoppers.  He was a lifetime resident of St. Johns and a 40 years, retired, longshoreman from Local 8 of the I.L.W.U.

    There was a beautiful service held; all Blues musicians were pall bearers with Al Lester (Hopper's) officiating. Norman opened and closed with wonderful Gospel songs.

    Carlie T played music from his heart and helped others as much as he could. Performing gave him his greatest pleasure. He will always be remembered, always missed and forever loved. I was proud to have been his wife!

Donna M. Helgerson   
9-18-01 - Happy Birthday Honey - We Be Bad!     

© 2001 Cascade Blues Association