Born in Columbus Junction. IA on March 5, 1933, Donna Kaye Dereschuk was the second of three children born to Walter and Irene Kauffman. Donna grew up on the family farm. In 1952, she relocated to northeastern Montana where she had family working in the oil industry. Shortly after Donna arrived in Montana, she began working for MDU and soon after married and started a family.
Donna was blessed with three daughters, and often played old Hank Williams while she danced and sang with her girls and friends. In those years Donna would refer to herself as a stay at home mom, but she had many jobs. She was an excellent cook and enjoyed entertaining in her home, especially around the holiday time. Donna worked many years as a bookkeeper, and her employers and those she worked with knew how hard she worked and how good she was at her job. A farmer at heart, Donna loved to tend to her flowers and plants, and had a deep love for animals. She had a hard persona but at her core was the salt of the earth, and would give the shirt off her back for those she loved.
Donna is survived by her daughter, Nora Johnson; brothers Gary (Karen) Jeide and Max Kauffman; two grandchildren; one great-grandchild; special friends, Taunya Wasser and Mike Green; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Donna is preceded in death by her daughters, Eve and Kyleen; parents, Walter and Irene Kauffman; sister, Bette Harbison; and brother-in-law, Jack Harbison.
Cremation has taken place and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Pauline Azure-Feuvray says
Donna was a neighbor to my brother Mike Monk Azure in the Yellow apartments on the southside of Wolf Point and now she can visit him in heaven. May she rest in peace with her daughters Eve and Kyleen and her other beloved relatives and friends.
Donna Mann says
Gary and Karen, I am so sorry to read of Donna’s passing. I had plans to go see her and never got it done. She was one of a kind and loved by so many. She might have talked tough, but we all knew she had a heart of gold. You are all in my thoughts at this sad time and I will never forget her. Rest in peace, Donna.
Lucy Redekopp says
So sorry to here about Donna.
Bill and Irene Rathert says
Gary, Karen and family, Thinking of you all. She was quite a person. Will miss seeing her at the home.
Peggy Anderson says
The Dereschuk family and my family spent a lot of time together and there are so many wonderful memories. Too many to mention but as a child, I do remember playing with the 3 girls while Donna helped Mom butcher chickens and evenings of our parents playing cards. Donna was a very good friend and neighbor to my Mom. It was so nice to have had an opportunity to see and visit with Donna several years ago at my Mom’s memorial service. Prayers and thoughts are with Donna’s family.
Sue Johnson says
Gary, Karen and family, Donna was VERY dear to very MANY people. She always had a way to “brighten the day” for those around her. May your sweet memories and faith sustain you now and in the days ahead.
Joy White says
Noni, Gary, Karen, Nicky…and families: Awww! remember that woman well! She was a dynamo! Sorry for your loss. Praying for you all.
Joy & Randy White
Gabriel Beauchman says
Very sorry for your loss condolences and prayers sent to all family
Bev and Warren Evans says
So sorry to hear of Donna’s passing thoughts and prayers are with app your family
Pat Stennes says
Gary, Karen and Nora, many fond memories of working with Donna. She always kept things lively and yoy knew where you stood with her. Sorry for your loss.
Laurie Anderson says
I grew up with that family. Donna was a big part of my young life. I loved her very much. Prayers to the families.
Ch says
Gary and family, so sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in your faith in the resurrection, the gentle love of God and the care and love of family and friends. We uplift you in prayer. With deepest sympathy Pr.s Greg and Chris H-D
Cody Balke says
So sorry to hear about Donna’s passing. Our thoughts are with all if you.
Jeannie archdale says
Oh how i loved Donna, if you didn’t want to know her opinion about things you better not bring it up cuz she minced no words, she would tell you exactly what she thought, I loved that about her. Oh what a wonderful reunion there is n heaven with her girls, Kyleen and Eve. Her family is in my prayers
Carol Neutgens says
Donna was always a favorite of mine. Loved her sence of humor. God gained a good woman.
Cyndi J Landsrud says
I’m really sorry to see this obituary of Donna’s passing. I have fond memories of her in my childhood excursions. Through the years, I lost track of her, yet the memories linger. I’ll be sure to let my mom and cousins know. Again, I’m sorry for your loss. It’s never easy to say goodbye to a loved one, no matter their age! Peace to you and your entire network of family and friends.
Annie Block says
Donna was always a favorite of mine. She was always friendly and had a heart of gold. She’ll be missed by many but welcomed in heaven by many as well. Thinking of you guys. Annie
Gail Flesch Green says
Noni and family, it has been a long time since I have seen you. I liked your mom. My heart goes out to you. It is hard to lose your mom, mine just passed too even though I know I will get to spend eternity together. May Our Lord comfort you, bring you peace and joy.