After a life of love and quiet grace, Augustine C. "Gus" Helming of Tomah, WI has passed.
What follows is not the whole story, but a thread of it.
The heart keeps better records than the calendar.
Augustine "Gus" Charles Helming, age 14, of Tomah, tragically passed away on Friday, May 1, 2026. Born on April 17, 2012, to Mark Helming and Anna Ledvina; he was a beloved son, brother, student, teammate, and friend, and he carried himself with a spirit that left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
Gus was an 8th grader at Tomah Middle School where he was respected by classmates and teachers alike. He approached school with a positive attitude and a willingness to do his best in all that he took on. He was the kind of student who made those around him better simply by being himself. Whether in the classroom, the hallways, or among friends, Gus represented Tomah with dedication, dignity, and pride. He was a proud Tomah Timberwolf, and he carried that identity with enthusiasm and heart. A true farm boy at heart, Gus loved working with and caring for animals, finding joy and purpose in farm life.
Outside of school Gus was active in Tomah FFA and Tomah Youth Wrestling. He valued the friendships and lessons he gained and gave his full effort in everything he did. Gus led in a quiet, genuine way-dependable, encouraging, and always there for others. His faith was an important part of his life and guided him to treat others with compassion and respect.
He is survived by his loving parents, Mark and Anna, and his brother Maximilian "Max". He is further survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and friends.
Those who knew Gus will remember him as loving, kind and funny. He had a way of making ordinary moments feel special and his laughter was a gift to everyone around him. His life, though far too short, was full of meaning and the impact he made will continue to be felt in the hearts of those who loved him.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Queen of the Apostles Parish in Tomah. Father Ethan Hokamp will officiate. Burial will follow in the St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery, Tomah, WI. Family and friends are invited for visitation on Friday, May 15, 2026, from 4:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. at the Tomah High School (Main Gymnasium). Please enter through the Tomah High School doors located off the main parking lot, the same entrance used for athletic and activity events. Additional visitation for Gus will be held on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. at the Torkelson Funeral Home in Tomah. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made out to the family. The Torkelson Funeral Home of Tomah is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.
