Valerie Gail Olsen Huhnke

Beautiful. Kind. Gentle. Grace-filled. Encouraging. Welcoming to all. Plus she had a dry wit and an infectious grin that would unexpectedly fill a room with laughter at a moment’s notice.

These words just begin to scratch the surface of Valerie, who passed away peacefully on Friday morning, December 19, 2025. As one who didn’t call attention to herself, she had no idea the impact she had on countless people just by showing up, entering a room, extending a hand or a hug, offering a kind word, and smiling. She let people know they were seen, heard and known.

Valerie and George were married 70 years before he passed just 7 months before she did. She is survived by her 5 children, Laura, Anne (Jim), Gail, Julia (John) and Matthew (Shelley); 7 grandchildren, Ben, Alex, Madison, Ellen, Aaron, Petra, and Joanna; 2 great grandchildren, Eian and Owen; and 3 siblings, Beverly, John (Anne) and Cher.

Valerie brought beauty into the world through her colorful gardens surrounding her Elm Grove home of 54 years. She and George hosted wonderful gatherings with family and friends frequently throughout those decades.

She made long-lasting and meaningful friendships as a student at Downer College and through her role as a receptionist at Weight Watchers business office for many years. Her love for people and animals led her to also work at the Humane Animal Welfare Society (HAWS), and she served as a volunteer at the Froedtert Hospital gift shop and Brookfield Congregational Church. Valerie also loved the quietness of a good book.

We are forever grateful for the love, care and friendships she received while living at Hartland Terrace her last five years. Thank you to the outstanding staff and residents.

If you are someone who experienced Valerie’s love, pause for a moment and remember how she made you feel. Then take that out into the world that so desperately needs this kind and gentle love. This is her legacy and we are forever grateful for her presence in our lives.

A celebration of life service for Valerie will be held in spring at Brookfield Congregational Church. Details will be provided in the months to come.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your charity of choice. Valerie would be so honored