DONNA GUTKNECHT

DONNA GUTKNECHT

After 36 years Donna Lou Gutknecht was reunited with her husband Gene. She was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, grand­mother, aunt and friend to many. Following a short illness, she passed away Friday, November 27th with family by her side. Donna was born and raised in Fort Dodge, dedicating her life to making her community a better place. On August 25th, 1931 she was born to Cyril (Cy) and Beulah (Holleschau) Guenther; she graduated from Fort Dodge Senior High in 1949 and attended Iowa State before returning home and doing accounting books which led her to meet her husband.

Trinity United Methodist Church has been where her family has served and worshiped for decades. In 1970 she became the first woman to serve on the Fort Dodge School Board, serving until 1976. For 21 years she worked in the treasurer’s office, the final two as County Treasurer in 1993/94. Among the many organizations she was proud to be a part of were American Cancer Society (Chairman), American Legion Auxiliary (Treasurer), DOES, Fort Dodge, Women’s Club (Treasurer), Red Hats, 100 Women Who Care and Treasurer for the Coachlight Condominiums for 40 years. Playing bridge, 500 & especially pitch were something she enjoyed doing with her regular card club. For decades she read to the blind every Tuesday through IRIS. In 1994 Dean Ankrum came back into her life for a wonderful 12 years, Donna enjoyed connecting with his children and traveling the world with him.

Survived by her sister Audrey Ercolini of Sioux City, children: Kris (Tom) England of Universal City, TX, Lori (Bob Randall) Hansen of Rockwell City, and Kirk Gutknecht of Fort Dodge, grandchildren: Sandra Hildreth, Shane Hansen, Summer Bawden, Lindsay England, Ryan England and Seth Hansen as well as 14 great-grandchildren with many others who love to call her grandma. Donna was preceded in death by her husband, Gene and her parents Cy and Beulah.

Following her wishes, Donna was cremated and will be buried next to Gene at Zion Lutheran Church in Hudson, IA. A memorial service is being held at Trinity United Methodist Church on Monday, July 19th at 3 pm, followed by a meal and visitation with the family from 4-7 pm.