"Our sympathy to Donna's family at this time. Our family has many fond memories of living across the street from Russ, Donna, and little Molly. Remembering her making raspberry pies, babysitting for our infant baby and toddler from 3-7 a.m. while Al had to be rushed to the hospital, and the handmade hassock they gave to us decades ago which we are still using. May your happy memories comfort you at this time. Al, Jan, Janelle (Bonnes), and Allison Firl"
In loving memory of
Donna M Whitman
October 28, 1926 - February 27, 2021
Donna Marie Whitman, age 94, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2021 at Madonna Towers in Rochester, Minnesota. Donna was born on October 28, 1926 to parents Harold and Lillian (Norton) Hein in Des Plaines, Illinois. She spent her childhood growing up in Barrington, Illinois.
On October 9, 1948, Donna was united in marriage to Russell Whitman in Barrington, IL. The couple lived in Wauconda, IL from 1948 - 1972, when they made the move to Rochester, MN. Donna and Russell owned and operated Whitman Cleaning Services in Rochester until retiring in 2000. Donna's favorite hobbies included baking, cooking, doing crafts, and spending time with her family.
Survivors include her daughters, Cathy (Bill) King of Pequot Lakes, MN and Teresa (Ken) Kause of Garland, TX; one granddaughter, Sarah (Aaron) Calmes; and three great granddaughters.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, March 5, 2021 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home, 5421 Royal Pl NW, Rochester, MN 55901. A visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:30 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Friday, March 5, 2021 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home. A private burial will take place at Grandview Cemetery in Rochester. Due to COVID-19 health concerns, masks are required at all services with proper social distancing measures.
Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Whitman family; to share a special memory or condolence please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com
Tributes
"My sympathy to Donna's family. She was a giving and loving person. I remember all the good times we had in Christopher Courts. Donna, may you rest in peace. My thoughts and prayers are with your family."
"Our deepest sympathy to the Donna Whitman Family, especially Bill and Cathy King. Donna was a beautiful person inside and out. We are so happy to have known her and that we were able to spend some happy times with her. She felt like family to us and glad she joined us for our annual King Flings. Donna was a great baker and we always enjoyed her baked goods she so willingly shared. May she rest in peace! Love To All, Chuck & Evy "
"On behalf of all of us, residents and staff, you are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Thank you for sharing Donna with us at Madonna Towers/Benedictine Living-Rochester. Sandy Molenda; Foundation"