Doris June (Sveum) Helmke

life story

A Life Together in a Community They Loved

Doris and Don celebrated 66 years, three children and two grand children together. Both born and raised in Stoughton, Wisconsin, they continued to live in the community their entire life. Doris died peacefully at home early in the morning of October 27, 2023, nearly four years after Don.

About Doris

Doris (Dodie) June Sveum was born June 1, 1929 to Oscar and Mabel (Olson) Sveum in Stoughton, Wisconsin. She grew up on the family farm south of Stoughton with her close-knit siblings. Hard work, good food, and a loving family rooted a life committed to those around her. Though she did it, Doris was never a fan of piling tobacco, preferring to be in the kitchen with her mother or sneaking away to read a book whenever she could.

From day one her best friend was twin sister, Doreen (Deanie). Through high school they dressed in identical clothes made by their mother. They talked nearly every day and even lived across backyards for a time. Both Dodie and Deanie were fun-loving, yet strong willed, especially when it came to arguing over who would pick up the check after a dinner out.

Doris graduated from Stoughton High School in 1947 and attended State Teachers College in Milwaukee. That began a decades long career she loved, teaching 5th or 6th grade in the Stoughton School District and sometimes an extra day at Sunday School at First Lutheran Church.

On June 19, 1953, Doris married classmate Donald (Don) Helmke and together they raised three children, Susan, Jane, and Karl. Family and community were the heart of their partnership for 66 years and in 1984, they were named Syttende Mai King and Queen. Doris was an active volunteer with the hospital, library, and many clubs. Doris often opened their home for gatherings, including holidays and a card club with good friends that lasted nearly 60 years. She will be remembered for her bright eyes and warm smile that welcomed everyone, followed immediately by an offer of a bite to eat.

Doris died peacefully at home October 27, 2023. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, and siblings and their spouses: Arthur (Irene), Ogden (Coryl), Lynn (Geraldine), Avis (Norman) Style, and Deanie Karlslyst. Mother-in-law Mable (Olsen) Helmke. In-laws and their spouses: Eileen (Hank) Godleski, Merlin “Bud” (Gertrude) Helmke, and Grace and Doris (Ruffin) Staffrude.

She is survived by her children, Susan, Karl, Jane (Teresa Sterns) Helmke and grandchildren Keegan and Grace Helmke, and many nieces and nephews and grandnieces and grandnephews whom she loved very much.

The family wishes to thank Agrace Hospice for their exceptional care. In lieu of flowers, consider a memorial to the charity of your choice.

memorial service

Services for Doris

November 11, 2023

First Lutheran Church 310 E Washington St, Stoughton, WI 53589, USA

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. central time, followed by the service, at the church. Committal will be immediately after the service at Lutheran South Cemetery. A light luncheon in fellowship hall will follow the service and burial.

Funeral/Cremation Provider: Gunderson Funeral Home - Stoughton