Donna Jean (Jensen) Tanner (1932-2018)

TANNER, JENSEN, LARSON, STEEGE, ELDER, JEWELL, NELSON

Posted By: Mark Christian
Date: 5/17/2021 at 16:53:14

Obituary From Adams Soderstrum Funeral Home, Story County, Iowa.

Donna Jean Tanner
May 17, 1932 - May 27, 2018

Our beloved Donna Tanner passed away May 27th in Des Moines, Iowa, surrounded by her loving family.

Donna entered this life as the firstborn daughter of Virgie (Larson) Jensen and Elmer Jensen on May 17th 1932 in Ames, Iowa. She was the first grandchild on both sides of the family. Her formative years were spent in Story City, Iowa. She graduated valedictorian of her 1950 SCHS graduating class. She received her B.A in education from Iowa State Teacher’s College in 1954.

She married Verne Tanner, Jr. from Cedar Rapids on July 20th, 1957. Two beautiful daughters, Christie and Beckie were born into this loving family.

Donna, 86, is survived by her husband of 60 years, Verne Tanner, Jr., her daughters, Christie (John) Steege of Lenexa, KS and Beckie Elder (Carroll DeVries) of West Des Moines, IA., five grandchildren, Nikki, Chris, Allison, Andrew, Tess and five great grandchildren. She is also survived by her middle sister, Virginia Jewell and predeceased by her younger sister Sandra Nelson. Her loving family also includes many nieces, nephews and their spouses and children.

Donna was an accomplished musician and offered her services as organist to various congregations where she worshipped. She began her career as a public school educator in Cedar Rapids. Later as a Mother she volunteered in many school and community events. She loved gardening and was an avid sports enthusiast.

During the course of their marriage Verne’s work took them to many communities where the ever-competent Donna set up their household and enthusiastically entered community life. In retirement they made their home in Ames, Iowa to be closer to their daughters and extended family.

Friends wishing to honor Donna’s life are invited to the Visitation from 5-7 P.M on Thursday, May 31st and a Celebration of Life Service at 11:00 A.M on Friday, June 1st. Join the family for lunch after the Celebration.

Both events will be held at:
Collegiate Presbyterian Church
159 N. Sheldon
Ames, Iowa 50014

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be given to the church in honor of Donna Tanner.

http://www.adamssoderstrum.com/
 

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