Donna Lee Wilkinson

We celebrate the life of Donna Lee Wilkinson, who departed this world peacefully at home, surrounded by her beloved family, on August 27, 2026. Donna was born on April 16, 1949, to Joseph and Francene Grandhold, who predeceased her. She is also predeceased by her cherished granddaughter, Jessica Hawes. Donna was a devoted wife to Laurence Wilkinson, with whom she shared 55 beautiful years of marriage. They were wed in December 1970, in South Bend, Indiana, a union that began during her college years in Detroit, Michigan. Together, they built a loving family that includes her children, Michael Wilkinson and Wendy Wilkinson, and her adored grandchildren, Aaron Hawes, Mikayla Hawes, and Hunter Hawes. Donna's legacy further extends to her great-grandchildren, Blake Hawes and Brooklyn Hawes, who will carry her memory forward. Donna's professional life was marked by dedication and compassion. She spent nearly three decades working at Little Sand Group Home in Remer, providing care and support to those in need. She also shared her love of learning as a teacher's aide in the local school district and briefly contributed to the Department of Natural Resources. A committed member of St. Mary's Church in Deer River, MN, Donna served as secretary and generously gave her time volunteering at nearby food shelves. Her community involvement was a testament to her deep-seated values of kindness and service. Donna had a passion for the arts, participating in musicals and ballet during her younger years. Her astonishing culinary skills, love of reading, and enthusiasm for musicals were well-known among her family and friends. Donna's quick wit and warm smile were her trademarks, brightening any room she entered. She had an extraordinary ability to make everyone feel welcome and valued, and her kindness and generosity left a lasting impact on all who knew her. A service to honor and remember Donna's remarkable life will be held on September 4, 2026, at 11:00 AM at St. Mary's Church, located at 15 1st Ave NE, Deer River, MN 56636. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Donna's memory to local food shelves, continuing her lifelong commitment to helping those in need. Donna Lee Wilkinson's legacy is one of love, laughter, and compassion. She will be deeply missed but forever cherished in the hearts of her family and friends.