On Tuesday, March 10th at 8:50 p.m., Donna was finally able to go home to her Bob. I like to imagine they’re already sitting together on a beach somewhere, looking out over the ocean and watching a beautiful sunset.
Donna was one of the most spirited and determined people I knew. So much of that came from being told she couldn’t do things because of her disability — but Donna never let that define her or hold her back. In fact, it seemed to fuel her even more. I always loved that about her. She lived life on her own terms, filled it with adventure, and saw more of the world than many people ever get the chance to. Her visual impairment never stopped her from experiencing life to the fullest.
Donna had friends from all over the world, and people were naturally drawn to her witty, fun personality. She truly valued every friendship and every moment spent talking, laughing, and catching up — even if it was just a quick 20-minute conversation.
More than anything, Donna loved her son and her granddaughters fiercely. They meant the world to her, and they carry the same strong, fighting spirit that she had.
She will be deeply missed, but the love, laughter, and determination she shared with all of us will always stay with us.
— John Patterson, Rose Johnston, Riley and Willow
While at meetings in D.C. we asked how Donna was doing, but had not expected something this soon! Donna was one of the first folks I met when I attended my first national convention. I have had the privilege of speaking at ICUB, though it was a long time ago. Donna gave a lot to her local area, the state and to ACB! Rest easy, my friend! You have found your way to a better place!
— Paul Edwards
RIP Donna. You were one of the people that encouraged me to get involved with ACB and I learned a great deal from you and Bob. Thank you for sharing your life and knowledge and not holding judgement. You fly high and keep watching the sunsets with Bob. Bless you.
— Becky Dunkerson
There are many things I remember about Donna from ACB, but one thing I do remember that maybe others will not is 2001, when we had an ACB convention in Des Moines. Despite the fact that we had to use five hotels and a convention center to hold the event, Donna was immensely proud to have ACB hold its convention in Des Moines.
— Ray Campbell
She was a wonderful woman! Yes, she could be funny but she also loved deeply. She will be greatly missed.
— Sally Benjamin
Oh my gosh, this is very sad to me. I haven’t talked with her in years, but I always thought highly of her. I loved it when she was secretary of ACB.
— Debbie Hazelton
Our loss is heaven’s gain. Donna, we will all miss you very much, but live with the hope of getting to see you again someday. Praying for all of Donna’s family and friends!
— Alison Smitherman
Donna was a very special person. I met her first in Iowa when I lived there and was pleased to find out she frequented Hawaii after I moved here. Her spirit was kind, warm, and inquisitive. She was loved by many. I will and many will miss her.
— Brian Huffman
What a beautiful life she had! May she be at peace and with Bob in heaven, enjoying the sun and surf. I loved her love of travel and seeing the world. Donna was a truly special person and touched the lives of so many.
— Weezie Seliger-Mullaly
Donna and I shared a love of Alfred Dunner clothing. Anytime we’d run into each other at convention or elsewhere, we’d compare our outfits. Occasionally we wore the same outfit on the same day – totally unplanned. Every time I select what I’ll wear for the day, I think of her and remember our clothing discussions. We had so much fun talking about the new items we’d bought, whether they replaced something that wore out, etc. I talked more with Donna about clothes than I did with anyone else. We also enjoyed needlework – her, knitting, and me, needlepoint, longstitch, or stamped cross stitch. Many’s the time I’d see her sitting in general sessions at convention, a Mickey Mouse bag full of yarn connected to her knitting needles, stitching away. I miss our chats.
— Sharon Lovering