WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Helen Marie Waltke, age 87, of Sturgis, passed away surrounded by her family at her home on Sunday, June 15, 2025.
Helen was born on July 27, 1937 in Colon, the daughter of the late John and Violet (West) Wondergem. She graduated from Colon High School with the Class of 1955 and was a lifelong resident of the Colon and Sturgis area. Helen worked for more than 25 years at the Kirsch Company in Sturgis until her retirement.
On March 12, 1955, Helen married Thomas E. Waltke at the Church of the Nazarene in Sturgis. Thomas preceded her in death on September 26, 2019. They shared 64 years of marriage.
Helen loved to sing. She sang in church and generously donated her time performing at long-term care facilities throughout the area. She enjoyed watching her children and grandchildren show livestock and horses. Helen was a 50-year member of the Burr Oak Grange and an associate member of the St. Joseph County Grange Fair. She was well known for her baked goods, especially her cookies, and also enjoyed crocheting.
Helen is survived by her children: Beth Forbes of Sturgis, Valarie (Mark) Smith of Sturgis, and Thomas E. Waltke Jr. of Florida; daughters-in-law Penny Waltke of Sturgis and Penny Waltke of Burr Oak; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents and husband, Helen was preceded in death by two sons, Michael Eugene Waltke and Jerry Dale Waltke, and her sister, Delores Schrader.
In accordance with her wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service celebrating Helen’s life will be held at New Beginnings Church on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., with Pastor Randy Evans officiating. Private interment of ashes will take place at a later date in Lakeside Cemetery.
The family requests that memorial donations be made to Centrica Care Navigators. Envelopes will be available at the church.
