Mona Gay Helinski

Mona “Gay” Kurek Helinski June 10, 1942 – September 13, 2026

Gay Kurek Helinski, 84, passed away peacefully in her sleep. Born in San Antonio, Texas, to Adolph (Dee) and Ed Mona Bronaugh Kurek, she finished high school in the Philippines while her father served in the Army Air Corps. She earned a degree in Elementary Education at the University of Oklahoma, where she became a Kappa Delta.

In 1963 she married John Francis Helinski, her husband of 60 years. Together they raised their family through Air Force assignments in California, New York, Texas, Germany, and finally Colorado Springs, where Gay led Girl Scout troops, sponsored USAFA cadets, and volunteered with Holy Apostles Catholic Church and many other organizations.

Gay loved bridge, crosswords, crafting, and sewing, and was devoted to Texas, her sorority, and her family. Unapologetically herself, she will be remembered most as a storyteller.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband John, and daughters Holly Gay and Mona Catherine. She is survived by daughter Laura (Doug Troutman); son Brent Helinski (Allie); brother Edwin; and six grandchildren, Bailee, Benji, Kate, Lainey, Holly, and Annika.

Funeral Mass and reception: October 23, 10:00 a.m., Holy Apostles Catholic Church.

Interment: 2:00 p.m., USAFA Cemetery (military ID or guest pass required; contact the family for details).

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gay’s name to Smile Train, St Jude, or Girl Scouts of America.