Donovan Helke

Donovan D. Helke, of Mosinee, passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by his family, with his devoted wife, Lynn, holding his hand. He went home to be with his Lord and Savior, leaving behind a legacy of devotion, generosity, and laughter that will never be forgotten.

Donovan was born to the late Wallace and Arlene (Kottke) Helke and was the middle child of seven children, growing up alongside five brothers and one sister in a close-knit family that remained the foundation of his life. From a young age, Donovan’s determination and spirit were evident. In his youth, he was a two-time Wausau Record Herald City Marbles Champion, proudly earning a Schwinn 10-speed bicycle for each of his championship victories, an accomplishment he fondly remembered. 

He graduated from the University of Wisconsin–Madison in 1978 with a degree in Physical Education and a Handicap Certificate, beginning a career marked by hard work, adaptability, and entrepreneurial spirit. Donovan held a variety of roles throughout his life, including substitute teacher, Graebel Movers employee, UPS worker, and later earning his Life and Health Insurance License while working for Prudential Securities. He ultimately found his calling when he opened his own agency, Compass Insurance and Compass Solutions, where he focused on financial planning. Donovan took great pride in helping others prepare for their futures. Even after his retirement on December 31, 2021, his passion never faded, and he continued working and consulting alongside his handpicked successor, Cody Hanke, until his passing.

On July 22, 1978, Donovan was united in marriage to the love of his life, Lynn Burns. Together they built a beautiful life rooted in love, faith, and shared memories. Donovan especially cherished the time they spent together on the golf course, where they created countless moments of joy side by side. 

Donovan loved being outdoors, whether cutting wood, walking in the woods hunting, or spending time at his beloved cabin, where he found peace and happiness in nature. He especially looked forward to his cherished annual deer hunting camp, where evenings were filled with sheepshead games, laughter, and a few cocktails among family and friends. In his younger years, he was an excellent athlete who loved racquetball and basketball, always eager to sprint down the court for a fast-break layup during Friday night games and City League play. After enduring several knee surgeries, his passion shifted to golf. He became an avid golfer and proudly formed his own Thursday night league, the Big-Dog Golf League, where his friends and family gathered to play, compete, and share in the camaraderie he loved so much.

He was an avid sports fan who faithfully followed the Milwaukee Brewers, Milwaukee Bucks, and most especially the Green Bay Packers. Watching the games brought him joy, and he celebrated and endured each season with loyal dedication.

Donovan was a very generous man, not only financially, but also with the most precious gift, his time. He cared deeply for his parents, taking them to countless medical appointments in their later years, and was always there for any family member who needed help, guidance, or support. He loved his nieces and nephews dearly, proudly supporting their many activities and fundraisers and encouraging them to save, invest, and plan for their futures. He took great pride in their accomplishments. He also had a wonderful sense of humor. Nearly every conversation with Donovan, whether in person or on the phone, ended in laughter. His warmth and wit made others feel at ease and brought joy to those around him. Donovan was meticulous in all aspects of his life. He was a proud record keeper, maintaining countless binders documenting everything from his clients’ financial plans to the history of family golf tournaments. His organization reflected the care and dedication he brought to everything he did.

He will be deeply missed by his loving wife, Lynn; his siblings, Dennis (Kristin) Helke of Mosinee, Gary (Pamela) Helke of Wausau, Wesley Helke of Wausau, Dwight (Lori) Helke of Wausau, and his favorite sister, Gayle (Jerry) Woller of Wausau; his mother-in-law, Joanne Burns; his brothers-in-law, Robert Burns Jr. and James Burns; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wallace and Arlene Helke; his beloved brother, Wade Helke; his father-in-law, Robert Burns Sr.; his sister-in-law, Barb Szczetaniak.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Bart Isaacson, Dr. Adedayo Onitilo, research nurse Barbie Gildenzopf, RN, and the compassionate staff in the Marshfield Emergency Department and ICU for their exceptional care, kindness, and support.

Donovan will be remembered for his generous heart, his sharp mind, his unwavering dedication to his family, and his ability to bring laughter wherever he went. The lives he touched, the wisdom he shared, and the love he gave will remain in the hearts of those who knew him forever.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, March 2, 2026, at 12:00 PM at Mount Olive Lutheran Church, 6205 Alderson St., Weston, with a social hour to follow. There will be no visitation. Pastor Lance Hoelscher will officiate.  

Ascend Funeral Home & Cremation Care, Weston, is assisting the family with arrangements.  You may leave messages and condolences for his family at ascendweston.org.