WAUNAKEE - Lorraine Annette Helmke, age 95, of Waunakee, passed away on Friday, April 11, 2025, at home. She was born on March 24, 1930, in Madison, the daughter of Joseph and Thora (Mork) Weger.

Lorraine graduated from Madison East High School. She was married to Rodney Helmke in 1954, and they remained lovingly united for 62 years until his passing.

Lorraine was a member of Normandale Lutheran Church in Edina, Minn., and of St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church in Madison, Wis. She was also a volunteer at the food pantry at St. Stephen’s.

Lorraine enjoyed baking, and she made the best banana bread. She had an enduring love of sweets and cake. She loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Lorraine is survived by her Children, Randy Helmke, Lynn Helmke, and Mark (Sherri) Helmke; five grandchildren, Shawn (Kayla) Hermanns, Laura Hermanns, Emily Helmke, Alec (Sydney Geiger) Helmke and Olivia Helmke; and two great-grandchildren, Bennett Hermanns and Braxton Hermanns. She was preceded in death by her husband, Rodney; parents, Joseph and Thora; son-in-law, Walter Hermanns; and a brother and two sisters.

A funeral service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, April 29, 2025. Burial will take place at Roselawn Memorial Park. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until the time of the service on Tuesday.

Memorials may be made to St. Stephen’s Evangelical Lutheran Foundation or Agrace HospiceCare. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

Lorraine Annette Helmke

March 24, 1930 - April 11, 2025

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