MADISON - Helen J. Finke, age 95, passed away in Madison, Wis., on Sunday, June 21, 2026. She was born on June 4, 1931, in Forward, Wis., the daughter of the late Lewis and Josephine (Gjesvold) Slotten.

Helen lived the rural life and graduated from Mount Horeb High School in 1949.

On April 12, 1957, she married Roy "Buster" Finke in Madison. They enjoyed many good times, including vacations in California, Colorado and Wyoming. Biking and long walks were a great adventure for them. Buster preceded her in death on January 22, 1998, after a long illness.

Helen enjoyed getting together with friends and family, walking, watercolor painting, cryptograms and reading. She had a kind heart and a knack for making everyone feel welcomed in her home.

Helen is survived by a beloved daughter, Mary Machaj of Middleton; many special nieces and nephews; and special friends, Ada Oimoen, Sally Rosen and Cindy Cermak. She was preceded in death by her three sisters, Doris (Don) Gunderson, Gladys (Albert) Nesheim and Corella Slotten; sister-in-law, Agnes (Slotten) Rhyner; brothers, Joseph and Glennys; two infant brothers and and two brothers-in-law.

A memorial service will be held at GUNDERSON WEST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 7435 University Ave., Middleton, at 2 p.m. on Friday, July 17, 2026. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 12 noon until the time of the service on Friday.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the University of Wisconsin Foundation, Wisconsin Alzheimer's Institute, US Bank Lock Box, PO Box 78807, Milwaukee, WI 53278-0807. Please make checks payable to UW Foundation - Wisconsin Alzheimer's Institute.

Night

The sun descending in the west,

The evening star does shine,

The birds are silent in their nest,

And I must seek for mine.

The moon, like a flower,

In heaven’s high bower,

With silent delight,

Sits and smiles on the night.

- William Blake

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson West
Funeral & Cremation Care
7435 University Ave.
(608) 831-6761

Helen J Finke

June 04, 1931 - June 21, 2026

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