Donna J. Strauch

Donna Jean Strauch, age 78, of Appleton, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Tuesday, July 19, 2016, at Rennes Health and Rehab Center. Donna was born in Antigo, Wisconsin, on May 16, 1938, daughter of the late Harlan and Ersella (Flader) Porter. She held a variety of jobs throughout her lifetime including working at Bordens in Plymouth and Scott Candy in Sun Prairie. She was even an over the road trucker across the USA. On June 27, 1956, Donna married Julius William Strauch. They were married for 55 years before his death in 2011.

Donna deeply loved her family. She especially cherished the “little ones”; her grandchildren and great grandchildren. They were her everything. She always had a basket in her car with picnic supplies because you just never know when you will need it. Her family has so many memories of times shared together, these will keep Donna's love alive in their hearts forever.

Donna is survived by her children: Vicki (Brian Lane) Wildman, Randy (Heidi) Strauch, Michele (Steve) Sullivan and Pamela Strauch; her grandchildren: Deanne (Ben) Dean, Brian (Sara) Wild man, Christopher Strauch, Reece Niemann, Spencer Niemann, Brennan Strauch, Samarah Beal; her great grandchildren: Damon Trimberger, Cora Dean, Ayden Wildman, Robert Wildman, Lillian Strauch and Cyrus Strauch; her siblings: Larry (Geriann) Porter and Bonnie Hurlbert; and her sister-in-law: Virginia Porter. She is further survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and husband, as well as her brother: Charles Porter; and brother-in-law: Llewellyn Hurlbert.

A celebration of Donna's life will be held on September 10, 2016. More details will follow as the date grows closer. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Donna's name. Condolences may be sent directly to the funeral home (537 N. Superior St. Appleton WI 54911) and expressions of sympathy can be expressed at www.wichmannfargo.com.

A special thank you to Rennes Health and Rehab for taking amazing care of Donna. All of the nurses and aides were attentive to her needs. Thank you to Mary Smith, you are amazing and Donna loved you. Lastly, thank you to Thedacare Hospice for making her last months special and for doing the little things she couldn't do.