Nan Helsabeck

My life has certainly come full circle. Here I am back at Emmanuel after almost 30 years on the coast and in Eugene. It has been great to see old friends and to look forward to welcoming new ones.

I grew up in Colorado and graduated from the U of Colorado in Boulder. My husband was drafted during Viet Nam and we moved to the east coast where we were stationed at West Point. All this time I was teaching and playing the organ for different churches.

 Two great children were born to us in Eugene and, although I’ve moved all around the state I have no desire to leave Oregon again. During the Pandemic I lived in Portland with my son and his family (including two Yorkies, two snakes, a blue-tongued skink, and two teenaged grandsons). You figure who was most exotic. My daughter lives nearby as well and I see all 7 grandchildren on a fairly regular basis.

My musical journey has been varied and exciting. I’ve served many denominations both as organist and choir director—and sometimes both. This is not a situation to be desired. However, regardless of the rituals and rites, the Faith remains central and I consider it a blessing to have served so many congregations in God’s House.