Who is Helen Essenhart?

Helen Essenhart is widely recognized as the wife of Dick Butkus, a former American football player, actor, and sports commentator. The couple met in high school and began dating, ultimately marrying in 1963 while still students at the University of Illinois. They have maintained their relationship for over 60 years. Despite her husband’s public persona, Helen has largely stayed out of the limelight and has three children with Dick: Nicole (Nikki) Butkus, Richard M. Butkus Jr., and Matthew Butkus.

Age

Essenhart was born around 1942, which would make her approximately 81 years old in 2024.

Height

Helen Essenhart stands at an approximate height of 5 feet 5 inches.

Education

Helen Essenhart first met her future husband, Dick Butkus, while they were both students at Chicago Vocational High School. Their relationship blossomed as they began dating, and they both enrolled at the University of Illinois, where Dick pursued a degree in physical education and Helen studied education. They tied the knot on July 6, 1963, while still completing their studies at the university.

Husband

Essenhart was married to Dick Butkus, a well-known former American football player, actor, and sports commentator. The couple met in high school and began their relationship before getting married in 1963 while they were still attending the University of Illinois. They shared more than 60 years together until Dick Butkus passed away on October 5, 2023.

Children

Helen Essenhart and her late husband, Dick Butkus, had three children together: Nicole (Nikki) Butkus, Richard M. Butkus Jr. (Ricky), and Matthew Butkus (Matt). Ricky continued his father’s legacy by playing linebacker for the University of Southern California (USC) before transitioning to a career as a sports agent.

Career

Helen Essenhart has kept a low profile throughout her life and has not sought a public career. She is primarily recognized as the wife of Dick Butkus, the renowned former American football player, actor, and sports commentator. Helen and Dick first met in high school, and they tied the knot in 1963 while still attending the University of Illinois. They enjoyed over 60 years together until Dick Butkus passed away on October 5, 2024.

Net worth

Helen Essenhart’s net worth has not been made public, as she has preferred to maintain a private life and keep her financial details out of the spotlight. In contrast, her late husband, Dick Butkus, was reported to have an estimated net worth of $8 millions.

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