Donna Stewart

Donna Lea Stewart

9/21/36 – 6/5/24

Donna Lea Stewart, a dedicated wife, a beloved mother, and grandmother passed away in her sleep on June 5, 2024, at the age of 87, after a courageous battle with memory loss and dementia. Donna Lea Johnson was born on September 21, 1936, in Deer Creek, Minnesota to Harry and Kate Johnson. She grew up to become a shining example of resilience, strength, and kindness to all who knew her.

She is survived by her daughter, Brenda and husband Stan Strom; ex-husband John “Jack” Stewart and wife Helen; sister-in-law, Winona “Nonie” Stewart; grandchildren, Jordan Strom and wife Chanchal Preet Toor, Jonathan Strom and fiancé Maggie Kaminski, Jacqueline (Strom) and husband Cougar Parmiter, Ashley (Stewart) and husband Doug Miller, Mikey Stewart, Katie Stewart and Andrew Stewart; niece, Bonni and Robert Ronning; nephews, Jeff and Kim Bogen, John and Joana Bogen, Jerry and Nancy Bogen; great nieces, Marni (Ronning) and Chris Poague with children Kai and Kara, Bri Bogen, Bliss Bogen; great nephews, Michael Ronning, Ryan Bogen. Donna was preceded in death by her beloved son, Michael J Stewart; parents, Harry and Kate Johnson; brother, Robert and wife Yvonne Johnson; sister, Phyllis and husband Wesley Bogen; many Stewart in-laws including, brother-in-law, Andrew Stewart. 

Donna's life was defined by her unwavering dedication to her family, grandchildren, and friends. She spent almost 15 years at Contract Book Distribution in New Jersey, where she packaged and shipped notable books all over the world. In her later years, she was the favorite lunch lady at Salk Elementary in Mesa, Arizona. Donna was a natural at her job, always put others first, loved children, and her kindness and compassion were felt by everyone she met. 

During her illness, Donna continued to show up with a smile on her face and was determined to keep up to date with your favorite football teams. She faced her memory loss challenges head-on, never losing hope or her positive spirit. Donna's bravery was an inspiration to the Aegis hospice staff and is a testament to the power of the human spirit. Donna was also a devoted mother to her two children, Michael and Brenda, a beloved “Gma Donna” to Jordan, Johnny and Jackie, and the coolest mother-in-law, to Stan who shared loving pranks with her. A memorable event occurred when Stan lovingly had 60 pink flamingos decorating her front yard on her birthday. She loved nothing more than spending time with her family, whether it was shopping with her daughter and grandchildren, baking with her numerous cookies and bars at Christmas, or attending the multitude of sporting events cheering on her grandchildren. 

Donna was a huge sports fan for any televised sports event, but especially her Minnesota Vikings and Minnesota Twins. Donna's kindness, warmth, and infectious laughter will be deeply missed by all who knew her, especially her family. Donna's legacy is one of love, compassion, and service. She touched the lives of countless people during her lifetime, and her impact will continue to be felt for years to come. Donna's family and friends take comfort in knowing that her memory will live on through the countless lives she touched and the example of courage and kindness she set for us all. 

A private memorial service will be held on June 21, 2024, in Gilbert, Arizona. In lieu of flowers, family is asking to plant a tree in honor of Donna for her long and fruitful life. A special word of thank you to the Aegis Hospice staff Colleen, Barb and Michelle for their endless dedication, updates, and support to Donna and family in her final months. Donna will always be remembered as a shining example of love, hope, and courage. Her life was a testament to the power of the human spirit, and her legacy will continue to inspire and uplift us all.          

See you later alligator!