Donna Pearson
Donna was born in rural Guttenberg, IA, on May 4,1933, to Roland and Myrna Moellering. She lived on the family farm until the death of her father in 1938. Donna graduated from Fayette High School in 1951 and continued her education at Teachers College of Iowa (UNI) and Upper Iowa University, obtaining a degree in education. Donna was teaching in Monona, IA, when she met Robert Pearson. Bob was stationed in Washington, D.C. and saw Donna while he was on leave in January 1955. He found out her name and wrote her a letter once he returned to D.C. She replied. After a quick courtship, they were married on July 17, 1955. They made their home in Monona until moving to Iowa City for Bob’s schooling. Donna taught in Coralville until Bob graduated. They moved to Humboldt where she and Bob taught. They welcomed their children Tracy Lynn in 1960 and Eric Roland in 1962. The family moved to Fort Dodge in 1966 where Donna taught in the Fort Dodge School System until her retirement in 1992.
In retirement, Donna volunteered at church, the library, Friendship Haven, and gave tours at the Fort Museum. Donna was active in many social and bridge groups. She spent the last 20 years of her life at Friendship Haven.
Donna had many loves, but her husband Bob Pearson was her long and true love. She loved all of her students and was proud of each one. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren brought her great joy. Lastly, Donna loved to knit and made thousands of children's sweaters to give away. She always enjoyed seeing pictures of kids wearing her handmade sweaters.
Donna is survived by her children Tracy (Mark) Walk and Eric (Sarah) Pearson, Grandchildren Allison (Vinnie) Wagner, Stephany Walk, Jaime Pearson, Colin Pearson, great-grandchildren Charlotte, Lillian, and Josephine Wagner, her brother Bill (Meg) Moellering and nephews Jack and Paul. She was preceded in death by her husband of 67 years Bob Pearson.
A private family service will be held at a later date. Gunderson Funeral Home and Cremation Services is entrusted with the arrangements. Memorials can be left to Friendship Haven or the Fort Dodge Community School System.