Donna Mae French Waitschies, 79, of Binghamton, New York passed away in Denver, Colorado on June 29, 2022.
Donna was born on November 15, 1942 in Binghamton, New York. She grew up in Holland Patent, New York as the eldest daughter of Gerald French and Ruth Turk French with her brothers Gerald French Jr. (Skip) and Gary French. Donna attended Wheaton College graduating with degrees in PE and Mathematics in 1964.
She married Karl Alfred Waitschies on August 7, 1965, and they spent over 50 years farming together in Peerless, Montana where they raised four children:Cheryl Hammond, Karleen Westermeyer, Kristine Trillet, and Janine Connor. They were active members of their church (EMB Church of Lustre) and the Peerless school community while their daughters attended.
Donna is survived by her loving husband Karl Waitschies of 57 years; children: Cheryl and Bart Hammond, Karleen Westermeyer, Kris and Jim Trillet, and Janine and Michael Connor; fourteen grandchildren: Heidi Hammond, TK Hammond, Joey Westermeyer, Ben Trillet, Ty Hammond, Karl Westermeyer, Natalie Trillet, Karenna Westermeyer, Dax Connor, Eli Connor, Sam Trillet, Faith Connor, Gavi Connor, Harlo Connor; her brother and sister-in-law, Skip and Lavonne French, brother-in-law, Maury Graham and sister-in-law, Sue French.
She is remembered for her tremendous love for her family, her passion for music, her infectious smile, and her amazing cookies. She led the church children’s choir for over 25 years, coaxing the most exuberant singing from groups of all sizes. It’s how she introduced people to Jesus.
She devoted her life to others – playing organ for church services as well as attending countless of her daughters’ sporting events for over 20 years which she continued by supporting her grandkids at their athletic events until she was no longer able.
She was a partner to Karl in running their farm where harvest was her favorite time. Donna was truly unmatched in backing up a grain truck. She loved evening walks and beautiful sunsets. Most importantly, she enjoyed a wonderful life impacting those around her and relishing her roles as Oma (grandmother), Mother, and devoted wife.
Services will be held at the Glasgow Evangelical Church on Saturday July 9 at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor John Skillman officiating. Burial will follow in Highland Cemetery. Condolences may be left for the family at bellmortuarymontana.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.