(DULUTH, Minn.) — With great sadness, the American Great Lakes Ports Association (AGLPA) shares news that Davis Helberg, former executive director of the Duluth Seaway Port Authority, passed away Wednesday at his home in Esko, Minn. He was 77 years old.
Helberg was a force within the Great Lakes maritime industry and one of its most colorful characters. His tall tales were matched by his wisdom and experience. His varied career included stints as a laker deck hand, a newspaper reporter, dispatcher for the Upper Great Lakes Pilots Association, and port director. He held the director role for 24 years. He retired from the port community in 2003.
Helberg is survived by his wife, Stacey Carlson Helberg; sons William and Adam, daughter Heidi; and six grandchildren. A memorial service is being planned for Monday, Nov. 12 at the Pier B Resort in Duluth. Messages can be sent to his family at the following email: dwhelberg@aol.com.
