Helen Brunkow

Helen Magdalen Brunkow, a faith-filled and courageous woman, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on May 18, 2023, in Darlington, Wisconsin at the age of 95. Born on April 7, 1928, in Fayette, Wisconsin, she dedicated her life to caring for others, both in her professional and personal life. Helen was the daughter of Fred and Marie Glatz of Truman, Wisconsin. She had an older sister, Hannah who predeceased her. Helen loved growing up on a farm and that is where she developed her deep love and respect for animals. The speed of progress during her lifetime is truly remarkable. To be driven in a sleigh to a one room school house bundled under blankets pulled by a team of horses to men on the moon and computers. Her life spanned nearly a century of amazing progress. Helen was a proud graduate of Darlington High School, class of 1947. She later pursued her passion for nursing and graduated from nursing training in 1976. Her career began as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) at Lafayette County Manor, where she provided exceptional care to the residents. She continued her professional journey as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), touching the lives of countless patients with her compassionate and attentive care. Helen was a devoted wife to her late husband, William Brunkow, who passed away in 1981. Together on a farm in Fayette, they raised a loving family, which includes their children, Judy Lindholm, Becky Taylor, Steven Brunkow (Kristine), and Heidi Moran (Patrick). Helen's unwavering caring and support for her family were evident in all aspects of her life, and she leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion. She was blessed with many grandchildren, great grandchildren and great, great grandchildren. Helen also had the rare joy of finding a loving partner later in life when she married Jim McCarville in 2004. They shared many special memories of travel and family adventures. Jim sadly passed away in 2014. In her free time, Helen enjoyed volunteering at the American Legion Lodge, where she was an active member. Her dedication to her community was evident in her willingness to give her time and energy to various causes. Helen's faith played a significant role in her life, and she was an active member of Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Darlington. She took great solace in her faith and spent time helping with various fundraisers and events at the church. Helen's particular passion was keeping her yard neat and tidy. Most days you could spot her racing around the yard on her riding mower with joy. Helen had a special place in her heart for animals, and she cared deeply for the well-being of all creatures, great and small. Her love for animals was evident in the way she treated her own pets and the kindness she showed to animals in need. Throughout her life, Helen was known for her independent spirit. She faced life's challenges with grace and determination. Her strength and resilience were an inspiration to those who knew her, and she leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and faith. Helen was also particularly proud of her Swiss heritage and made several trips to Switzerland which proved to be magical experiences. Helen Magdalen Brunkow will be dearly missed by her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew her, and her faith-filled and courageous spirit will continue to inspire future generations. The family would like to thank those who helped Helen transition through the last period of her life, Lafayette County Manor, Sentinel Home Care, LLC and Sienna Crest of Darlington. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Erickson Funeral Home in Darlington, WI. Viewing will be held Friday, May 26 from 10 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. at Holy Rosary Catholic Church. Funeral mass will be conducted at 2 p.m. followed by burial at Union Grove Cemetery. A light lunch will be served in the church basement at Holy Rosary Catholic Church immediately following the internment.