A life gently lived deserves to be joyously remembered. Helen Marie Bakke, age 87, of Superior, WI, passed away on Monday, May 25, 2026, at Villa Marina Health and Rehab surrounded by family. 

She began life as Helen Marie Haskins, daughter of Anna (Stulen) and Clyde Haskins, on February 22, 1939, the youngest of four children, from Bennet WI. Her early years were spent exploring the flora and fauna of the Midwest and briefly in the Pacific Northwest building close bonds with her family and growing into the kind gentle woman she would become.

Helen’s achievement was her four children, Scott, Cindy, Andy, and Carrie. She dedicated many years at the former Chris Jensen Health and Rehab and became the first Health Unit Coordinator there. Helen remained inseparable to her siblings throughout the years and distance.

Quick to smile, a curious mind, and a veracious artist with yarn as favorite medium. In the past year and a half, she completed 15 Afghans, gifts for family and friends. Helen looked out for the care of animals, domestic and wild alike. Earning the trust and love of the wildest hearts and was easily welcomed into the fold wherever she was.

Helen is survived by her children Scott (Joanne) Taber, Cynthia (Brian)Spongberg, Andrew (Kathy Englebretson) Bakke, and Carrie (Robert) Oruche; grandchildren Tony, Megan, Sarah, Sammy, Shakir, Kayla, and Julian; great grandchildren Noah, Aubrey, and Lucy; sister Lois Rallo; brother Ernie Haskins; and sister-in-law Shirley Haskins; several nieces and nephews, and special friend Ginger. 

Helen was proceeded in death by her Parents, her second husband James Bakke, her brother Robert Haskins, her sister-in-law Arlene Haskins, and her brothers-in-law Richard Lidell and Tony Rallo.

Per Helen’s wishes, in lieu of a funeral, she wished to extend actions of wisdom: Smile more. Do a kindness for someone else. A simple wave is a great way to change a day and turn a stranger to a friend. The effort of a perfectly placed and fluffed pillow is always worth it.

The family would like to express the sincerest gratitude to the staff of Villa Marina for their excellence in care, compassion, and for providing comfort and wisdom at each stage.