Donna Joanne Schmeltzer, 77, Black Hawk, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2008, at the Lippold Hospice Suite in Sturgis.

Following cremation, a memorial service for family and friends will be held at the Rose Garden in Rose Hill Cemetery in Spearfish on May 31, 2008, at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Denzel Nonhof officiating.

Survivors include her husband, Lou, the love of her life for 61 years; children: Linda Corey, husband Cal; John Schmetlzer, wife Ann; Mike Schmeltzer, wife Paula. Grandchildren: Carrie Belawske, husband Kurt; Christine Johnson, Curt Corey, Amy Schmeltzer, Glen Schmeltzer, Stephen Schmeltzer, and Kristen Schmeltzer. Great-grandchildren: Matthew, Kelsea, Madison, and Evan; sister: Barbara Williams, husband Keith; brother: Richard, wife Rose; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Donna was born in Redfield, SD, on April 10, 1931. She graduated from Spearfish High School. Donna's most important job was being a loving wife, devoted mother and fun grandma.

Donna was a staunch democrat who loved to debate anyone naive enough to think they had a fair chance.

She was preceded in death by her parents: Woods and Gladys (Goeken) DuBois.

The way she lived, the way she laughed, and the way she endured was an inspiration to anyone that knew her.

A memorial has been established for the Lippold Hospice Suite in Sturgis.