Donna Wood, 76, passed away peacefully at Pilgrim Manor Nursing Home in Plymouth on Thursday, January 19, 2023. She was born on February 19, 1946, in Plymouth, Indiana to Cecil and Bertha (Thomas) Schmeltz. Donna was #3 of their four daughters.
Donna was preceded in death by her husband Donald Wood and infant son David; parents Cecil and Bertha and three nephews: Larry D. Birk, Troy Klingerman and Scott Lowry; and brothers-in-law: Gale Lowry, Larry Birk and Larry Wood.
She is survived by sisters Sharon Lowry of Bremen, Margaret Birk of N. Carolina and Gloria (Chuck) Krieg in Bremen. Also, a very close friend, Debra Davis.
Donna graduated from Tyner High School with the class of 1964. She then went on to graduate from College of Commerce in South Bend in 1965. After which she began her career at Associates for the next 10 ½ years.
In June of 1976 Donna and Don Wood were married and enjoyed 25 years together before his passing.
Donna spent some 55 or so years on bowling leagues. Some years it was three different leagues each week. In reflecting her love for bowling to her love for kids, she spent 11 years as a volunteer for Marshall-Starke Special Olympics. Another 10 years as a youth bowling coach. Five years as the John Glenn bowling team coach.
Donna has served in office on the different leagues including a lifetime member as a “Women of the Moose” and the American Legion of Plymouth as well as our Thomas and Schmeltz reunions.
Proudly she was involved in fundraiser events at the Fall-o-ween Festival for the youth bowling league. After which the next five years serving with William Mortan as co-chair of the Fall-o-ween Festival. Thus, she was affectionately named “Fall-o-ween Queen.”
With her love to help and being with kids she became a substitute teacher for John Glenn schools, which she enjoyed until Covid hit.
Our family wants to thank the caregivers that helped at home, especially Leslie Moser and Debra Davis, for all the extra care, and South Care Hospice and Pilgrim Manor for the wonderful Care.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 25, 2023, from 11-1 p.m. at Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home, 1100 N. Michigan Street, Plymouth. Funeral services will follow at 1 p.m. with brother-in-law Pastor Chuck Krieg officiating along with the American Legion Auxiliary performing a ceremony.
Please click the link below to live-stream the funeral service on Wednesday, January 25th at 1PM:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85847173593
Private burial will be in the Woodlawn Cemetery, Walkerton.
Memorial contributions can be made to Marshall- Starke Special Olympics 1901 Pidco Dr, Plymouth, IN 46563 or Southern Care Hospice 1626 E Day Rd, Mishawaka, IN 46545.
Caryn Durski, Funeral Director
Eric Ferguson says
I had the privilege to meet Donna and get to know her through our joint involvement with Falloween. She was such a kind person that would do anything for anyone. You could tell she just loved the kids when she would talk about her time as the bowling coach and substitute teacher. Donna was a special lady and will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Debbie Bailey Kuskye says
So very sorry to hear if Donna passing. My prayers are with the family as you go through the next few days and weeks.
I remember coming out to the honestead with Grandma Miller and discovering moms side of the family. Fond memories of times spent there with all you girls and your folks!!
Edith (Edie) Hastings says
I was so sad to hear of Donna’s passing. Please know that I have you and yours in my prayers. Donna was such a good friend and strong supporter of Marshall-Starke Special Olympics. If it wasn’t for her the bowling program would not have gotten off its feet. She taught me so many things about the sport and how to help the athletes. She will always be in my mind and prayers.
Carol Finkbiner says
Gloria I’m so sorry to hear about Donna’s passing. Both Kenny and I are keeping all of your family in our thoughts and prayers.
Cindy Sheaks says
I only have known her for the last 10 years & she was such a kind & sweet lady. I enjoyed having conversations with her & learning from her.
RIP
Cindy montgomery says
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of Donna. I bowled on a team with her for many years on Wednesday nights in plymouth. She had a terrific sense of humor and a great personality.
Donna Taber Whitmer says
Gloria and family..
Thinking of you at this sad time of loss. Sisters are special and we will always missed in our hearts.
Cynthia L Martin Milner says
I am so sorry that Donna passed.
I have known her all my life. Donna had a great sense of humor. She has been so kind and helpful to so many. I went to visit her again, but was too late.
Prayers. Thinking of her family and Deb. Sadly, I will be out of town on Wednesday.
Stephanie Thomas says
I’m so sorry to hear of Mrs Donna’s passing. She was such an asset to the Women of the Moose. I hope great memories fill her family and friends over the coming days & weeks.
suzanne gibson says
I met Donna at the American Legion being a member I got to know her and love her dearly
she was a wonderful amazing person with a heart of gold
I am blessed to have called her my friend
we had many talks and laughs
I will remember those times and cherish them always
I am so sorry for the loss of this beautiful lady
she is an angel now with might wings that are welled earned
my thoughts and prayers are with her family and many friends
God bless
Suzanne Gibson
Emma Brown says
Another person from our class of 1964. I always liked Donna, we shared a lot of good times in school. She will be missed. My thought and prayers will be with her family. ✝️✝️
Patti Slough says
Shorty, you were a blessing to so many students at John Glenn. You weren’t just a substitute, but a mom and friend too all. You are missed. Patti Slough
Robert Thomas says
I only knew Donna from our yearly family reunions but she was a huge part the planning ! I’m rhe oldest son of Norman & Maire Thomas My condolences to all the family and friends !
Carolyn Fouts Kelly says
Dear Sharon, Margaret and Gloria,
My sympathy and prayers to you.
Diane Kuskye says
Gloria and family, so sorry to hear of Donna’s passing. You and your entire family are in my thoughts and prayers. There are always the special memories you can hold on to. Rest in peace Donna.
Pamm (Thomas) Brewer says
So sorry to hear of Donna’s passing! She always made our Thomas reunions fun and she loved collecting our updates every year! I DO hope someone will step up and continue the reunions! I would, but now live in Southern Illinois. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Butch and Karen Rozycki says
Enjoyed Donna in high school. She always had a smile on her face and was friendly to everyone. I am so sorry for your lost Gloria and Chuck. It is so hard to lose a sister and she was a Special one. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family. Wish I could have come to the service but I have a doctor’s appointment at the same time. Hugs and lots of love!