Donna Mae Williams

Donna Mae Williams of Baxter, died April 6, 2024 following an acute illness. She was 92.

She was born on July 13, 1931 to Gerhard and Iona (Pittenger) Howland in Decorah, Iowa and was baptized and confirmed at Decorah Lutheran Church. She attended Decorah High School, graduating in 1949. Following her graduation from HS she attended University of Iowa in Iowa City, then transferred to Luther College in Decorah.

Donna met the love of her life, John A. Williams, in Spillville IA. They were married October 29, 1950 while both attending Luther College. They moved to Brainerd in 1952 where they raised their family and John began his teaching and coaching career.

Donna was a wonderful homemaker, always providing love and devotion to her family. Her presence was positive, nurturing and giving at all times. “Family first” with Donna. Her family has many memories of her meals, how she always smelled so good with her loving hugs and welcoming to family and friends. She so loved having her family around.

Donna’s grandchildren all say, "grandma is precious.” Her love and devotion as a grandmother and great grandmother is generous, kind, patient and always with her full heart. They will miss her loving presence deeply.

Donna took many trips back to Iowa to visit her family. She and John enjoyed many trips to Glacier Park, hiking miles of mountain trails and viewing the Montana wildlife. Glacier has been a special place for her and her family. Donna and John also enjoyed winter trips to Hot Springs taking in the the beauty of Arkansas and the horses at Oak Lawn race track.

Donna will be dearly missed by her husband, John of 73 years; son, Mark Williams; daughters, Kristy Theis, Susan (Jeff) Krogstad; son, Craig (Clare) Williams; daughter, Cindy Williams and Rob McGuigan. Eleven grandchildren, Joel (Susan) Sullivan, Ryan Sullivan, Katie (Albert) Rich, Thomas Burke, Craig (Liz) Krogstad, Mark (Tiffany) Krogstad, Marit (Charlie) Moberg, Chelsea (Sam) Gilsrud, Mara (Cooper) Tollefson, Grant and Garrett McGuigan. Eighteen great grandchildren, Connor, Kyla, Tyler, Mari, Jack, Ashley, Owen, Elin, Olivia, Luke, Siri, Henrik, Ingrid, Eisley, William, Jack, Rowen, and Callum. Sister, Helen Estrem; sisters-in-law, Martha Howland and Suzanne Howard; many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Keigh and Leland; son-in -aw, Jerry Theis and brother-in-law, Craig E Williams.

There will be a private family memorial service.

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