February 9, 1948 – September 19, 2026

Robert Brian Heltberg, who had a remarkable physical likeness to Peter Britt, spent many years donning a top hat and formal coat to portray Peter Britt as well as Mr. Beekman in Jacksonville at the Beekman Bank and Hanley Farm and other places or events. He also was one of initial drivers in the early days of the Jacksonville trolley. He worked with the Jacksonville Historical Society and with the Southern Oregon Historical Society at Hanley Farm. Robert, born February 9, 1948, passed peacefully Saturday, September 19, surrounded by love with family and friends.

Robert grew up in Europe and the Middle East, as his father was in the U.S. Diplomatic Corps. When his father retired in 1965, the family returned to California. Robert attended Burlingame High School and then the College of San Mateo.

During his younger adult years, Robert lived his life in the San Francisco Bay area, where he engaged in many adventures, including campaigning for Robert F. Kennedy for President in 1968, maintaining his international knowledge and language skills as an international flight steward for TWA, teaching in Montessori schools, providing gardening and floral services, being a chef for missionary priests, providing home health care for loved ones and friends, and exploring nature in the Pacific Northwest

A very gracious person, Robert loved people, life-long learning, and the beauty and experience of wild nature, gardens, and mountain vistas. He always loved dogs, with so many accompanying him over his nearly 8 decades of life. He resonated a gentleness and generosity that was welcoming and kind to everyone, leaving behind many friends who cared deeply for him.
Robert always longed for a more rural life, and in 1995 moved to Prospect, Oregon where he lived until his death. He could sit on his porch and enjoy the view of Mt. McLoughlin and Mt. Ashland. He had fun as he became a master gardener, sharing his harvest with other gardeners and at farmers’ markets throughout the area.

Robert spent many years delivering the Medford Mail Tribune, until its closing, in his own rural community from Shady Cove to Prospect. He always gave treats to dogs along the route and developed many lasting friendships over the years. In the most recent years, Robert became a familiar presence with many of these same people as he provided substitute mail delivery service in the Shady Cove, Trail and Prospect areas.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Arnlioth Heltberg and Mary Duggan Heltberg. He is survived by cousins Mary Duggan Dumont, John (Jack) Duggan, Joseph (Joe) Duggan, Sharon Duggan, and numerous nieces and nephews. The family appreciates the care and concern provided by the staff at Asante and Casa Verde Hospice. A celebration of life will be held at a date to be announced.