DONNA MAE ROSS

Donna M. Ross, 80 of Devils Lake formerly of rural Webster, ND passed away early New Year’s Eve morning, December 31, 2011 at Mercy Hospital. Donna Mae was born on June 18, 1931 at Devils Lake, ND the daughter of Miles and Mary (Wilkens) Johnston. Donna was reared and educated in Devils Lake, graduating from Devils Lake Central High School. She attended Mayville State Teacher’s College where she received her teaching certificate. She taught at the Grand Harbor Township School until her marriage. Donna was united in marriage to William Neil Ross on July 1, 1955 at Starkweather, ND. They established their home on the farm at rural Webster. Here they lived, farmed and raised their family through the years. Neil passed away on January 30, 1988. Donna moved to Devils Lake after Neil’s death and began working for Ramsey County Water Resource. She worked there until she was in her mid 70’s before retiring. Donna enjoyed her retirement and especially having more time with family and friends. Donna often spoke of the simple life she lived as a child. Homemade skis used on the big hill near the Dion farm and the Sunday get-togethers when the family enjoyed homemade ice cream. The good times in the Farmers Union Hall in Grand Harbor and the large gardens that were grown and harvested. A life that gave her a greater appreciation of her heritage. Donna is survived by her children: Lori and her husband Roger Wilhelmi of Devils Lake; James Ross and his wife Joan of Webster, ND and William Dan Ross of Neola, Iowa; eight grandchildren Amy (Steve) Gratton, Lisa Wilhelmi and Sara Wilhelmi; Tristan Ross, William Joel (Hayley) Ross and Kevin Ross; Jay (Shala) Ross and Jonathan Ross; eight great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews. Donna was preceded in death by her parents; husband; brothers Raymond, Alfred, Leo, Robert and Arthur and sisters Elizabeth “Bessie” Johnston and Doris Buskirk;