Donna Haug, age 100 of Grand Forks, ND formerly of Fisher, MN passed away on Thursday, October 31, 2024 at Valley Senior Living Transitional Care Unit.
Donna Louise Willert was born on September 26, 1924 to Emma and Paul Willert Sr., in a rural Thompson, ND farmhouse. Her family moved often throughout her childhood, and she lived in three different locations in the Crookston, MN area, graduating from Crookston Central High School in 1942. At that time, she met Edwin Haug, a musician and farmer from rural Fisher, MN.
On August 29, 1944, Donna and Edwin (Eddie) were married in the backyard of the parsonage of Fisher Lutheran Church, during a short break in grain harvest. For 50 years they made their home on a farm southwest of Fisher. During these years, Donna was a devoted farm wife and mother of two daughters, Janet and Kathryn, born 14 years apart. A big part of Donna’s life included her faithful support and care of her husband, Edwin, who was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in his mid-40’s. That journey took them in and out of hospitals with many different treatments throughout their married life. Donna and Eddie enjoyed several summer vacations at Detroit Lakes with family and friends. After retirement, they travelled to Florida, Canada, Alaska, Japan, The Philippines, and spent winters in Texas until it became difficult for them to travel. In 1993, they moved off the farm and built a twin home in East Grand Forks, MN, where they lived together until Eddie passed away in June of 2007. Donna lived in their twin home until July of 2018, when a serious fall and injury took her on a new path. She then resided for five years in Grand Forks, at Country Estates and Wheatland Terrace, in Valley Sr. Living on 42nd. Gratefully, she enjoyed the company of her sister, Glenna during these final years at Valley Sr. Living.
Donna was active in Fisher Lutheran Church, in the WELCA group (formerly Lady’s Aid) and Bible Study, as a Sunday and Vacation Bible School teacher, choir member, and a devoted quilter for Lutheran World Relief. She continued to actively participate in sewing and quilting into her 90’s. Donna also enjoyed the company of her dear friends in the neighborhood Homemakers Club. She was a fantastic cook and loved to sew. She meticulously cared for their farmyard, mowing and growing vegetables and flowers. During many seasons, she processed a bounty of canned goods, and her homemade baked goods, especially her pies, were renowned. She was known for being particular in her housekeeping, and in her appearance. She will always be remembered for a desire to keep her hair perfect. She was a hard worker and wasn’t afraid to get dirty, but could quickly transform into a classy, well-dressed lady.
Donna was so delighted in her 5 grandchildren, and 8 great grandchildren, who always brought a smile to her face. She is survived by her daughter, Janet Vanek of Grand Forks, ND; grandson, Darren (Annie) Vanek, Carter, Harleigh and Jaxson of East Grand Forks, MN; granddaughter, Kristen (Justin) Carlson, MacKenzie and Rowen of East Grand Forks, MN; daughter, Kathryn (Steve) Flaat of Bemidji, MN; grandson, Cole Flaat of Sarasota, FL; grandson, Gavin (Miranda) Flaat, and Easton of East Grand Forks, MN; grandson, Connor (Taylor) Flaat, Wynter and Owen of Sarasota, FL; and sister-in-law, Rena Willert of Crookston, MN; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband; Edwin Haug; son-in-law, Don Vanek; sisters, Gladys, Glenna and Ruby; brothers Vernon, Morris, Warren, Kenny, Meryl and Paul; and many dear in-laws and extended family members.
Funeral Service: 11:00 AM on Thursday, November 7, 2024 at Fisher Lutheran Church, 209 2nd St. S. Fisher, MN, 56723.
Visitation: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM with a 6:30 PM Prayer Service on Wednesday, November 6, 2024 at Dahl Funeral Home, 2029 Central Ave. NW, East Grand Forks, MN 56721 and also one hour prior to Funeral Service on Thursday at Fisher Lutheran Church
Interment: Fisher Lutheran Cemetery, Fisher, MN
Online Guestbook: www.dandahlfuneralhome.com
Arrangements By: Dahl Funeral Home, East Grand Forks, MN