For near  a century the name Helfrich has  been  almost synonymous with "McKenzie." David's death is a loss to the river, the community and the family, though it's a blessing  son  Ken and granddaughter   Kelsey   carry on the family tradition.

That's a great story about young Dave's first run down "Marten Rapids."  While "Marten" is the official spelling, there is considerable evidence it was originally "Martin" in honor of the Rev. T.M. Martin who had an early ranch there.  

In his book "Tales of the Oregon Cascades", Prince Helfrich himself wrote about the early days: "When Martin Rapids was reached, the boat was lined around it....(bailing bucket needed)  It was nothing to fill the boat to the floorboards in such places as  Clover Point, Martin, McAllister and Gate Creek Rapids. (page 17) 

The  Oregon Encyclopedia likewise uses "Martin" in its articles on   Vida and the McKenzie River.  Looks like Prince was right about that as well as so much more.  What a family.