Donna, beloved wife, mom, and grandma, gently climbed into the arms of Jesus on Monday, April 11, 2022.

She was born in Redfield, SD, on August 5, 1939, to Cecil and Bertha (Andreen) Walston. Her family later moved to Kennebec, SD, where she lived until completion of high school. Donna attended Black Hills State College, graduating in 1959 with a degree in Secretarial Skills. She moved to Rapid City, SD, to work at Rapid City Medical Center. It was in Rapid City that she met "her Dan." Donna and Dan were married on September 10, 1960, at Cathedral of Immaculate Conception. They later moved to Sturgis, SD, where they built their family and a warm circle of friends.

Although Donna's first priority was being a mother to her two children, Jamie and Mark, her compassionate spirit led to her involvement with many community groups, including Jayceettes, Beta Sigma Phi, PEO, and local choruses. She shared her singing and artistic talents with the Sturgis United Methodist Church, where she was a member of the choir for over 40 years. She started a children's choir and helped to create many beautiful and fun Mother-Daughter Banquet events.

All who knew Donna saw her gracefully navigate the challenges of memory loss. Her innocence and humor were only enhanced with the advancement of this illness. Her curiosity, playfulness, and love of the outdoors kept us ever in pursuit of her and her elusive purse. But who could resist those twinkling eyes and easy smile? Even up to her last moments, her sense of wonder, quirky nature, pure spirit, and joy-filled giggle led to our delight.

Honored to be part of her world are her husband of 62 years, Dan; daughter, Jamie Hilt and husband, Tom; and son Mark Mayer and wife Darla.

Grandchildren blessed Donna's life: Dan and Kelsey Mayer, Brittanie and Joe Rezac, Kevin Hilt, Matt and Taryn Blaseg, Nate and Elise Blaseg, Abbey Hilt, Mia Hilt, Lily Hilt, Jacob Mayer, and Eliza Mayer.

Great-grandchildren new to her life: Natalie Blaseg, Addie Rezac, and Mayer baby (due in September).

Siblings have been a wonderful part of her journey: Ivah Smith, Bud and Mary Walston, and Wally Walston.

The family is deeply indebted to the many who extended love and care to Donna.

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