Remembering Ross Helland
There is a hole in the world today. Ross Helland; beloved husband, devoted father, loving son and brother, unmatched uncle, loyal friend, dedicated teacher, gifted musician, and decorated Pokémon trainer; left us bereft on Tuesday, March 31, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born in Leominster, MA, Ross graduated from BASIC High School in Henderson, NV before going on to University of Arizona (Bear Down) for his Bachelors of Music in Music Education and Saxophone Performance. Ross also received his Masters of Education from Grand Canyon University. A man of excellent taste, Ross remained a Wildcat fan for life. It was at UofA that Ross joined the Newman Center, and began a lifelong commitment to ministry.
Ross began his career in education teaching music at Valencia Middle School, then as Band Director at Salpointe Catholic High School (both in Tucson). While working there he met the love of his life, Jennifer. They married in 2014, and have two beautiful children. In 2019 Ross accepted a job as Assistant Principal at St. John Paul II High School in Avondale.
Ross brought joy and humor everywhere he went, whether it was jokes in his fantasy football league or big smiles while rope dropping at Disneyland.
There are not enough column inches in the obituary section to contain the love Ross gave to us, nor to describe the irreplaceable role he played in our lives. Through his career and his ministry, Ross touched so many lives, and leaves a legacy of compassion and dedicated service. But far surpassing that, Ross considered his greatest accomplishment to be his role as husband to Jen and father to Henry, Harrison, and three unborn saints in Heaven.
Ross is survived by his wife, Jen, sons Henry and Harrison, parents Kent and Laura, sister Melinda, and many in-laws and extended family.
Share Memories Of Ross
We invite you to share your memories of Ross with his wife, Jen, and their sons, Henry and Harrison. Your stories, photos, and moments will help keep Ross’s spirit alive for them—especially as the boys grow and come to know him more deeply through the people who loved him.
These stories and photos will be compiled into a physical book for the family.
Please use the form below to share a story, a memory, or a photo. Every contribution becomes part of the legacy Ross leaves behind.
Support The Helland Family
Ross gave so much of himself to others throughout his life. Now, we have the opportunity to continue showing that same care to his family.
Supporting the Hellands isn’t just about meeting immediate needs—it’s about helping carry them into the future. Your generosity helps ensure that Jen, Henry, and Harrison are supported, cared for, and reminded that they are not walking this road alone.
If you feel led, please consider giving or sharing their GoFundMe. This is one way we can continue Ross’s legacy of love and community.