Age: 93
October 21, 1930 – November 12, 2023
A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 21 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in St. Cloud, MN. Visitation one hour prior to the service at the church on Tuesday. The interment will be at Acacia Cemetery in Clearwater, MN.
Donna was born on October 21, 1930, in Bongards MN to Otto and Magdalena Willemsen. Following graduation from high school, Donna worked at Commander Elevator for a short time until offered a job at the Bongards Creamery where she worked until she got married. Donna met Don Lemke at a church gathering on Reformation Day. Don was singing in the choir while Donna accompanied the group on piano. They were married on August 16, 1952.
Through the years Donna always had a servant’s heart for everyone. She enjoyed working in the church whether as an organist, a Sunday school teacher, being part of Naomi Circle, or working in the church gardens.
Donna loved to prepare food for others in need through Place of Hope, and for friends, neighbors, and family. She had the gift of hospitality and made holidays, birthdays, and other occasions beautiful and special.
Donna had a deep personal love not only for her family but for others around her. We felt safe knowing she was always there for us. When she moved to Country Manor, she began her ‘ministry on wheels’ extending compassion, comfort, encouragement, and uplifting to other residents and staff stating, “I can still do some good”. Donna was also a prayer warrior. When she prayed, it was powerful.
Donna wanted to be remembered for her love of nature and music, and especially for her family. Her children all agree she was the best Mom in the whole wide world. We have all been supremely blessed. Well done, good and faithful servant.
Donna is survived by her children, Kurt (Cindy) Lemke, St. Cloud; Wendy (Ken) Langanki, Two Harbors; Debra (Earl Clark) Humphries, Spring Park; Mark (Karen) Lemke, Verndale; and Paul (Anna) Lemke, Ely, IA, 10 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, and her sister, Lorraine Born, Edina.
She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, Don, on October 4, 2012, brother and sister, Franklin Willemsen, and Merle Herd, and grandson, Luke Lemke.
Schedule and Information
Visitation Details
10:00 AM, Tuesday, November 21, 2023, at the church.
Service Details
11:00 AM, Tuesday, November 21, 2023, at the church.
Visitation and Service Location
Bethlehem Lutheran Church
4310 Co Rd 137, St Cloud, MN 56301
4 Comments. Leave new
What a lovely picture of Donna with her beautiful smile! I’m so glad our paths crossed….first at Peace Church when us kids were growing up, then years later as our moms resided at Country Manor. Please know that caring thoughts and heartfelt sympathy are with you.
This picture shows Donna’s personality perfectly! I am blessed to have been able to visit Donna every week working in the Hair Salon in Country Manor! She was the sweetest, most kind lady I have ever had the pleasure of meeting! She reminded me of my own Grandmother, in fact she would even ask me about my own Grandma and how she was. May God’s peace be with you all during this time.
Donna was always so caring and generous. I had the opportunity to spend fun time with extended family at the Lemke ‘s lake home a couple of times. Her love of family was always evident. Donna knew the power of prayer; one true way to make a difference in daily life and our world! I’m happy to think her spirit has been reunited with Don, awaiting the day of the reign of our King Jesus. She leaves behind an awesome legacy–her loved adult children and their families raised in the Lemke love. May your cherished memories sustain you on this difficult journey. With love, Gwen Peltier
My deepest Sympathies to you and your family.