PORTLAND — Mark Joseph Hellen, 63, of Portland, died July 17 while traveling on business in Manchester, New Hampshire.

He was born May 10, 1952, the son of Eleanor Johnson Hellen and Robert “Yogi” Hellen. Mark graduated from Portland High School in 1971, and went on to attend Maine Maritime Academy, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in marine engineering in 1975.

Hellen later earned a chief engineer’s license, and successfully began his career in that field. But in order to be closer to his family, he eventually chose a different professional path, opening his own business, Warm at Last. It sold Monitor heaters for residential and commercial use, and with his wife, Karen, he operated the business for eight years.

Hellen then worked as the energy services manager for Nelson & Small, and later, the sales and service manager for Webber Supply. Over the years, he became widely known as an expert on energy and heating systems, and was always available to help others or provide advice, no matter the size of the job.

Hellen and his wife raised four children, and he was actively involved in their lives. He spent years volunteering in support of their school activities, and was a true advocate for his children. He is remembered for his boisterous laugh and infectious smile.

Hellen was predeceased by his parents.

He is survived by his wife, Karen; his children, Nathan Joseph Hellen and his wife, Amy, Clare Elaine Berntsen and her husband, Brandon, Nicholas Robert Hellen and his wife, Ernia, and Nolan Ryan Hellen; a grandson, Jameson; and his sister, Margaret Sylvester and her husband, Paul. He is also survived by his aunt, Mary Pellegrino, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

A celebration of Hellen’s life was held at A.T. Hutchins Funeral and Cremation Services, in Portland, on July 22.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Maine Maritime Academy, c/o Development Office, 1 Pleasant St., Castine, ME 04420, in memory of Mark J. Hellen.

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