Philip Helley (aka Bidder #4), age 67, of Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin passed away on Monday, December 18, 2023 at Agrace Hospice Care Center in Fitchburg, Wisconsin surrounded by his loving family.

A Memorial Service for Phil will be held on Saturday, February 3, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. at Trappers Turn Golf Club in Wisconsin Dells, with Reverend Matt Gehrke officiating. Visitation will be from 9:00 A.M. until the time of service at 11:00 A.M. Following the service, a Celebration of Life will continue at Trappers Turn. Please feel free to wear a Hawaiian shirt in Phil's memory if you like or bring a story to share.

Phil was born June 11, 1956 in Reedsburg, Wisconsin to Dale and Vera (Waltman) Helley. He attended Trinity Lutheran School and Wisconsin Dells High School, graduating in 1974. He continued working toward his Bachelor of Arts education through UW-Baraboo and Madison.

Phil started working at the age of 9 in a local gift shop to help support his family. This was also when his love of Antiques began to develop. He attended weekly auctions at Nelson's Auction Barn along with his parents and grew to become a nationally recognized antiques expert and collector of toys. Beginning with garage sales and flea markets, his knowledge and self-taught expertise would eventually lead him to appraisals, estate evaluations, auction houses, and working alongside Antiques Roadshow appraisers Leigh and Leslie Keno. He was never happier or more in his element than when in search of his next treasure, and the story that would follow.

Phil began his career at Ad-Lit Publishing & Distribution as a driver in 1978 and within 5 years was running the company. Under his leadership, it thrived for 41 years. He was the driving force behind its growth and success. He was respected and admired by all, and was often heard to say, "I don't have customers, I have friends". Ad-Lit employees weren't employees, they were family. He created a unique, fun and rare atmosphere that made people want to stay. He had a high standard and work ethic, always challenging everyone to do their very best. Phil instilled pride in accomplishment. He was galvanizing, inspiring and beloved.

Phil was well known throughout the community, and was instrumental in launching the first Automotion Classic Car Show in 1986. Through Ad-Lit, he coordinated the Wo-Zha-Wa Parade for twenty years. He worked to raise awareness for the local food pantry and helped bring the first Canadian Pacific Holiday Train to Wisconsin Dells. He also generously worked behind the scenes to support many local benefits. Phil used his talents to promote and support Wisconsin Dells and its community throughout his lifetime.

Phil enjoyed traveling, including trips to Cancun, London, Wales, Scotland and Ireland, where he was adopted by the locals frequenting his favorite pubs.

Phil is survived by his loving wife Trudy, faithful companion Izzy, nephew Bobby (Haley) Greyslak, half-brother Richard (Sue) Greyslak; half-sisters, nieces, nephews, cousins and sisters-in-law, Nancy Bacon and Sally Kaucher. He was preceded in death by his parents, aunts and uncles and mother and father in-law Charles and Joyce Snider. We will never forget the outpouring of love and support from our many friends who came forward and surrounded him with unwavering love and kindness throughout his illness.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Dr. James Heun and the SSM St Clare Specialty Clinics Cancer Care team. We will be forever grateful for their dedication and compassionate support over the past several months. We would also like to thank Agrace Hospice for the kindness, comfort and care shown to Phil these past few weeks.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to SSM Health St. Clare Foundation or Agrace Foundation.