DONNA AUKERMAN

DONNA AUKERMAN Donna Jean Savage Allen Aukerman, 93, passed away peacefully on January 8, 2025, at Homestead Assisted Living in Rexburg, Idaho, under the compassionate care of Homestead Home Health and Hospice. Donna was born on June 27, 1931, in Burlington, Iowa, to Paul Savage and Virgie Fern Marie Duke Savage. She was one of eight children and grew up in Burlington alongside her three sisters and four brothers. She graduated from Burlington High School in the Class of 1949. On September 30, 1951, Donna married Wilbur Leon Allen. Together, they had two children, Kathy and Dale. In 1954, the young family moved west to Idaho and made Boise their home. Donna lost Wilbur in 1976 but continued forward with strength and grace. On August 12, 1978, she married Danny (Dan) Clinton Aukerman in Boise. The two shared a devoted and loving marriage for 46 years. In 1991, they moved to Cascade, Idaho, where Donna remained until November 2024 before transitioning to care in Rexburg. Donna worked for the Farmers Home Administration for 28 years, dedicating herself to helping others with kindness and professionalism. Beyond her career, she was known for her independence, determination, and vibrant spirit. Donna was a passionate huckleberry picker and jam maker, often found tending to the wild bushes on her property in Cascade. She was deeply admired for her wisdom and resilience, and she inspired all who knew her to live with grace and gratitude. She is survived by her husband, Danny (Dan) Aukerman of Cascade, Idaho; daughter, Kathy Allen Schmidt (Danny) of Boise, Idaho; son, Dale Allen (Mauna Rae) of Rigby, Idaho; stepdaughter, Dannette Aukerman Valdez (Ray) of Seattle, Washington; stepson, Tony Aukerman (Laura) of Dayton, Washington; sister, Paula Rieke of Minnesota; brothers, Chuck Savage (Geri) of Illinois, Danny Savage of Colorado, and Rick Savage (Dianne) of Missouri; 13 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren, lovingly known to them as "Grandma Greatie." She was preceded in death by her first husband, Wilbur L. Allen; her parents; sisters Gloria Loper (John) and Patsy Downer (Max); and brother Jack Savage. A graveside service will be held on June 27, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Dry Creek Cemetery in Boise, Idaho, where Donna's cremains will be laid to rest beside her first husband, Wilbur. A gathering of family and friends will follow to celebrate her remarkable life. The gathering will occur at Comba Park, 2995 N Five Mile Road, Boise, ID.