Helen R Koppes

Helen R Koppes, 80 years old from Madison WI, peacefully passed away on Friday November 21st at her home surrounded by family. She was preceded in death by her mother Doris Tessmann and father Elmer Tessmann, sister Connie Phillips, and brothers Ronald Tessmann and John Tessmann.

Helen is survived by her son's Jeffrey and James Aberle, daughter in-law Andreia and granddaughters Kayla and Kassidy, along with many nephews and nieces and Orland Koppes whom she loved greatly.

Helen lived a very fulfilled life. Very driven, always looking forward to the next challenge and opportunities to new business ideas.

Proud of her entrepreneurial spirit she helped found Badgerland Drywall Inc, while maintaining full time employment with AT&T and Ameritech throughout the years, along with the challenge of raising two sons. With a University of Wisconsin business degree, she kept a busy schedule, but always enjoyed the challenge.

She was strong in her faith and family. Saved at thirteen years old, she knew she was going to see Jesus. She grew up in the church serving as the secretary to the pastor at Bethel Lutheran Church where she also taught Sunday school classes. Her mother was also a Christian and wrote poems about her walk with the Lord.

She very much enjoyed and treasured her two granddaughters. Some of her favorite activities included going flower shopping with her daughter-in-law then seeing the beauty of them planted at her home. She had a strong bond with her beloved cats and saved more than a passing stray. She loved to cook and always wanted people to be well fed and take home plenty of leftovers. Near the end she kept saying how happy she was.

She was extremely generous and would always help in any way she could. Strong in advice, yet gentle in demeanor.

She will be greatly missed. Heaven received one of its own.

We will be celebrating her gift of life on December 6, 2025 at Calvary Chapel 4702 E Broadway, Madison, WI 53716. Visitation at 11:00am, service at 12:00 with a reception to follow.