Dona J. Garver

1925 - 2010

Dona J. Garver, 85, died Friday, Oct. 8, 2010, after a brief illness.

She was born March 29, 1925, in Champaign County, Ohio, and was a 57-year Ventura County resident. Dona enjoyed working for the Defense Department for 31 years. In 1984 she retired from The Navel Ship/Surface Weapons Systems Engineering Station in Port Hueneme. Energetic and full of life, she found great comfort and a sense of fulfillment in providing the care others needed. She was always the first to help her friends in need or lend a helping hand. She was a very loving, empathetic, private person who never wanted to be recognized for her service or her generosity to others. Each shared a very special and unique relationship with Dona and she will be missed by all.

Dona was preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Carrie Garver; her brothers, Roger and Reginald Garver; and her sister, Freda Fogg.

She is survived by her niece, Sandra Porter of Beaumont, Calif., and her nephew, Dennis Woody of Bremerton, Wash. Dona was grateful for her many friends, including the "Happy Faces" and her special neighbors. She is also survived by lifelong friends, Martha Johnston of Camarillo, Marilyn Boyd of Los Banos, Calif., and Richard Johnston of Camarillo.

Dona's parting message to her friends and family was, "I appreciated your friendship and support throughout my life." She told some friends shortly before she died "My future is in God's hands now."

A graveside service will be held at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 16, at Ivy Lawn Memorial Park, Ventura. Pastor Bob Walpole of the Life Way Baptist Church will officiate.

In lieu of flowers it is requested you consider a donation to your favorite charity.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Griffin Family Funeral Chapel of Camarillo, 482-1166.