Diana “DD” Finn

Diana Lynn “DD” Finn (nee Wilfert), age 72, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2025, in Naples, Florida. Born on February 7, 1953, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Diana lived a life marked by devotion to her family, a successful career in real estate, and a deep love for animals.

Diana began her professional journey in the commercial real estate industry at Spring & Boe. It was there that she met Michael Finn, who would become her beloved husband and lifelong partner. Her career led her to Schlitz Park, Marquette Campus Circle and Liberty Property Trust, where she completed many successful projects and also built friendships within the real estate community that would endure throughout her life.

Mike and DD spent many of their years together traveling. So many memories were made with trips to Ireland, Florida, California, Arizona, Door County, among others. Music was extremely prevalent in her life. There was always music playing in the car, at home, and anywhere else it could be. Mike and DD loved going to concerts together. These memories were so special to Diana that she saved each ticket stub to every single concert the two had attended together.

Diana took great pride in her children, Ed and Erin, and how they were raised. Her unwavering love and commitment to them helped shape their character and instilled in them a strong sense of family and values. Her children now have children of their own that possess these wonderful qualities as well, even at young ages. Diana’s grandchildren Abby, Tyler, Ellie and Christopher became the light of her life. Grandma, or “Gamma” was her favorite title and she loved those kids “bigger than the sky.”

Her nurturing spirit extended beyond her immediate family to all those fortunate enough to know her. She found great joy in creating a warm and welcoming home, hosting many holidays, and numerous celebrations. Any acquaintance that entered her home, left as a friend. She especially enjoyed decorating their home for the Christmas season in preparation for the many friends and family that would visit during the holidays. In Springtime, her passion was planting her flowers in her many pots and soaking up the sun. She loved cooking and took joy in delighting her guests with new recipes, or serving tried and true favorites like her world-famous spaghetti.

Diana had an abiding passion for all animals and treated her pets with extraordinary care and affection. Following in the Wilfert tradition, she pampered Gypsy like royalty and fed her many gourmet meals. This compassion extended well beyond animals as she was generous supporter of numerous local charities. She had so much love in her heart; to share this love and offer kindness or support to others simply filled her heart to the fullest.

She is survived by her husband of 35 years, Michael Finn; son Ed (Jill) Valerio; daughter Erin (Billy) Thiermann; grandchildren Abby, Tyler, Ellie and Christopher; sister Kathy Griebling; brother-in-law Pat Finn; as well as other nieces, nephew, cousins and loved ones. Diana was preceded in death by her parents Robert and Catherine Wilfert; sister Margorie Kornberger; and nephew Jeremy Griebling.

Diana’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. May her legacy of kindness, generosity, and love bring comfort to all who mourn her passing.

As we rest her in the arms of angels, we say, “Good night, my love.”

A memorial gathering to celebrate Diana’s life will be held on Friday, April 25, 2025, at Krause Funeral Home, 21600 West Capitol Drive, Brookfield, Wisconsin. The gathering will take place from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, followed by a Service from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Diana’s memory to one of the following: Project Adam, Golf Fore Wolfe and a Cure, or George IV Memorial Golf Outing.