Donna M Van Giesen

RIPLEY- Donna M. Gross Van Giesen, 89, of Ripley, passed away at her home on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, following a lengthy illness. She was born April 17, 1936, in Westfield N.Y. the daughter of the late Lester Ervon and Jesse Mae Redding Gross.

     Donna had attended Ripley Central School. Later in life she was employed by Ripley Central School which she retired from.

     Donna enjoyed baking, working in the vineyard on the family farm and spending time with her family.

     She is survived by her loving husband of 72 years, Harry Richard Van Giesen, whom she married March 24, 1953 in Westfield, NY, four children, Teri (LJ) Krause of Ripley, NY, Debi Dibble of Westfield, NY, Lori (Bob) Allen of Ocala, FL, and Richard (Trina) Van Giesen of North East, PA, 9 grandchildren, Tracy (Sam), Kristie (Kirk), Michelle (Randy), Jason (Sarah), Jessica, Patrick (Amanda), Christopher (Ashley), Matthew, Brianna. Eleven great-grandchildren, Kaitlin, Ryan, Kole, Max, Callia, Sageon, Kael, Kannon, Keagan, Jaxson, and Justice.

     In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son-in-law, Gary Dibble, great-granddaughter, Erin Dibble, grandson-in-law, Steve Promber.  Four brothers, Russell, Edwin, Robert and Leon Gross, and two sisters, Marian Porter and Shirley Gillespie.

     At Donna’s request, there will be no public services observed. A celebration of life will be held at the convenience of the family. A private graveside service in the Quincy cemetery will be held at a later date. 

     Memorial donations can be made to the Ripley Hose Company Rescue Squad (PO Box 47, Ripley, NY 14775).

    To leave a remembrance or to post condolences to the family, please visit freayfuneralhome.com