Donna M Rice

Donna M. Rice, 74, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 19, 2020, at Aspire Senior Living in Kimberly, Wisconsin. The love of her family, friends, and God enveloped her during her transition. Donna was born in Manitowoc on January 13, 1946, daughter of the late David and Frances McGlin. She lived in Appleton with her husband Roger where they raised their children. Donna's love for family and a beautiful home became her profession. A sweet, kind catholic girl grew to manage a dynamic and diverse family with four kids, battle breast cancer and win, tackle her fear of flying and make a mean beef 'n beer! Donna teamed up with husband Roger and turned their passion for travel and adventure into many road trips throughout the United States making fantastic memories along the way. Just imagine... four kids giggling, arguing, snacking, singing, complaining, etc. and the infamous "are we there yet"? Sounds perfect, right? Sometimes we can all use some help with the daily grind and Donna was covered in that department with five incredible sisters and one brother, great in-laws, and amazing neighbors! We all love you so much and will miss you in so many ways but we also know you're happy to be reunited with God and dad. Peace and love forever!

She is survived by her son Alan (Kelli, granddaughter Alana, and great grandson Terrell); her daughter Rene; her son Jeffrey (Walter Giorgis-Blessent); her daughter Angela (Pennie Dwyer and Lexi); her sisters Connie, Dorothy, Marcia, Nancy, and Jeanie and many other special relatives and friends, in particular her dear friend Lorna. 

A memorial service for Donna will be held at a later date when notice of improved community safety regarding Covid-19 is available in Wisconsin. Special thanks to the staff at Aspire Senior Living and we appreciated all of the compassionate care visits extended to us. We are very grateful for the quality of care provided by Moments Hospice and we send a warm virtual hug of gratitude for RN Sarah from Moments for her exceptional kindness and gentle bedside manner with mom. 

From Al:  Mom- You were such a great mom! You built in a great work ethic in all of us kids! You taught us so many valuable skills like cooking, biking, walking, lawn care, etc. Your travel planning skills were second to none as you sifted through mounds of travel brochures year in and year out to provide several awesome trips each year throughout North America! You personally instilled in me my auto detailing skills as we worked together cleaning dad's cars for him. I truly believe you started it all for me; thanks! I’m really going to miss all our Brewers discussions and baseball playoffs every baseball season. Mom, mostly I’ll miss our weekly trips to the mausoleum to visit dad where we shared many tears of sadness and joy together! I am happy you are finally reunited with Dad but sad at the same time! MISS YOU MOM - Love, Alan              

From Rene: Mom, thank you for instilling in me a strong sense of family. I feel lucky to have had you as a stay at home mom, dedicated to the importance of family time and the raising of your children. Even though strict at times I am thankful for that. It taught me to be disciplined and diligent. I was pleased to hear from you recently that you felt you had a happy and good life. Love you, “Reenee Ricky”

From Jeff: Well, "Momski"...nothing too "fancy shmancy" from me here. I love you so much and I'm so blessed and grateful for you. All of our memories are swirling around in my head now! Two of my favorites are learning to cook and bake by "helping" you in the kitchen and when we stopped for a dilly bar after walking downtown. Thank you for being brave in so many ways and loving me unconditionally, especially during the 70s and 80s. Heaven just got a great lady!

From Angela: Mom, your strength was immeasurable. You were a light when there was darkness; you were the gleam in a smile and had the kindest demeanor. You had a big heart, I imagined was made of gold, and a love for everyone that we joyously share with you. Though I will miss you greatly, I know you are at peace, and happy again with Dad. Love you lots! 

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