Donna M. (Strawser) McDonald passed away after a short bout with cancer on November 23, 2008 at her daughter Cathy’s home with her children by her side.  She was born April 11, 1924 in Steuben County, Indiana to Earl and Emma (Wilcox) Strawser and lived most of her life in LaGrange.  Her paternal grandparents were Sherman and Della (Anstett) Strawser of Steuben County, Indiana.  Her maternal grandparents were Henry and Mary (Miller) Wilcox of Steuben County, Indiana.

She is survived by 1 son and 3 daughters; Mrs. Maurice (Cheryl) Kirkpatrick of Howe, Indiana, Mrs. Michael (Victoria) Sciarra of Lakewood, California, Gary McDonald of LaGrnge, Indiana and Mrs. Joseph Michael (Cathy) Wilcher of Shipshewana, Indiana.  She is also survived by a sister Mrs. Donald (Mary) Beers of Florida and 2 brothers Bud Strawser of Florida and Ted Strawser of Wolcottville, Indiana.  Donna has 6 grandchildren Brent Wirick, Mike Kirkpatrick, Jeff Lounsbury, Robin Sciarra, Randy Sciarra, Chandra Hipple, Josh McDonald and Brandie Fitch.  She also has 2 great grandchildren Madesyn Hipple and Kloee Fitch.  She was preceded in death by her parents, 2 brothers – Dean Strawser and Herbert Strawser and 2 sisters – Wava Brooks and Tillie Skeels.

Donna enjoyed working outside the home when her children were older.  She worked for many years at Starcraft-Emma Products in Emma, Indiana.  She was one of the first supervisors at Emma when the company opened its doors.  She had a long and satisfying career, eventually retiring in 1988.

Even though Donna experienced serious health problems after retirement, she was determined to be productive and contribute to the community.  For many years she was a very proud volunteer at LaGrange Hospital.

Donna’s faith was strong and she was a long time member of the Church of God in LaGrange.  While the weather often affected her health and prohibited her from attending church as often as she would have liked, she found ways to stay connected to her church family.  For many years hers was the friendly voice other members would hear from on Saturday morning reminding them of their usher duties at Sunday services.  She also hosted a home group so she could continue to study the Bible and maintain fellowship with her church friends.

In addition to spending time with her family, Donna found great joy in visiting with her friends on the phone or in person.  She always had a ready smile and an easy laugh.

Services will be held at Carney-Frost Funeral Home on Tuesday, November 25^th.  Viewing will be from 1-3 p.m., services to follow at 3 p.m. with the Pastor Brian VanOsdol officiating.  Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery, LaGrange, Indiana.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Parkview Noble Hospice.  Envelopes are available at the Funeral Home.  On-Line condolences may be sent to Carneyfrost@earthlink.net.  Carney-Frost Funeral Home is in charge of Arrangements.