died Sunday, Sept. 13, 2015 in Nye Pointe in Fremont.
Donna was born July 29, 1929 in Fremont to Roy and Matilda (Nicolyson) Christensen. As a baby, she moved with her family to Albion. She was confirmed in the South Branch Lutheran Church in Albion. In 1944, she moved with her family to Arlington, where she graduated from high school. Donna attended Midland College in Fremont. After receiving her teaching certificate, she taught in Washington County for 9 years. She also worked summers in Lincoln at the State Home for Children as a case aide.
On June 28, 1953, Donna was married to John Ehlers at First Lutheran Church in Fremont, and they have resided here since that time.
Donna was a member of First Lutheran Church where she was involved in many of the activities including the Bible Story Hour. Her love of children led her into the Girl Scouts where she was a leader for 30 years. She served on the Girl Scouts Prairie Hills Council for 16 years and was president from 1978 to 1982. She was awarded the Scouts Thanks Badge I and II. Her most meaningful award was the LAMB Award presented by the National American Lutheran Church for Girl Scouts in 1980. Donna had been active in the PTA, an extension club and a Bunko Card Club.
Survivors: husband John
daughter Rita and husband Keith Jorgensen of Grand Island
son Kevin Ehlers and fiancee Cindy Johnston of Fremont
9 grandchildren
9 great grandchildren
Donna was preceded in death by daughter Sheila Baker Roth, grandson Daimon Johnston, sister and brother-in-law Joyce and Darrel Wulf, and nephew Jim Wulf.
The funeral service will be 10 AM Thursday (Sept. 17th) at First Lutheran Church with Rev. Marty Tollefson. Visitation at the Ludvigsen Mortuary will be Wednesday, 2 to 8 PM, with the family receiving friends 6 to 8 PM. Memorials may be directed to the family for distribution. The committal will be later in Ridge Cemetery.
online guestbook @ www.ludvigsenmortuary.com
Condolences(4)
Clarice Magnuson
Fremont, NE Friday, September 18, 2015 Please know how sorry I am about your dear Mother, RitaI know you and Keith and all your family remember a dear person as those of us that knew her as a friend. She was a very caring person to all that knew her and contributed so much Christian love to the community.
Karen & Steve Bremer
Arlington, NE Thursday, September 17, 2015 Dear John, We just wanted to let you know how sorry we were to hear of Donna's death. You were always so devoted to her and I'm sure she will be missed by you and your family. God's blessings to you as you greave. May He bless you with peace and comfort. All our best Steve & KarenBob and Linda Betkie
Fremont, NE Tuesday, September 15, 2015 Dear John, Rita, Kevin and families,We are so very sorry to hear of Donna's passing. She was an amazing woman. I thoroughly enjoyed working with her during our tenure together with Prairie Hills and at church. She was strong in her beliefs and stood firm on her convictions. Donna was always compassionate and caring of those she helped. She was and will continue to be an inspiration to those who were lucky enough to know her. Heaven has a new angel. Our deepest sympathies,
Bob and Linda Betkie
Richard & Joan Porter
Fremont, NE Monday, September 14, 2015 We want to extend our sincere sympathy to all of you following Donna's passing. She has finally arrived safely and free of pain and suffering to the God she loved so much. May she rest in peace and may God bring his healing and comfort to you as well. With Our Sympathy and Prayers, Richard & Joan Porter