Donella Irene Kujawa

Donella Irene (Walgren) Kujawa, passed away peacefully at home on October 28, 2025, in Niles, Michigan, at the age of 69. Born on November 6, 1955, in LaPorte, Indiana, to the late Donald Walgren and survived by her mother, Geraldine Lucas (Lowers), Donella's life was a testament to her faith-filled spirit and the joy she brought to everyone around her.
Donella's journey through life was marked by her devotion to her family, unwavering faith, and the countless lives she touched with her kindness. Donella married her beloved husband, Terry Kujawa in Nashville, TN on May 1, 1993, at the Grand Ole Opryland Hotel. She was a loving mother to her daughters, Tarah Sheteron, Trisha (Chad) Knight, Billie (Edward) Downs, and a caring mother to her son, Craig (Virginia) Kujawa. Her legacy of love is carried on by her ten grandchildren, Lance and Joseph Sheteron (Ashley Qualls), Chelsea (Connor) Olkowski and Madison Knight, Danny (Selena) Young and Chase Brawley, Hank (Haley), Kole, Jacob and Paige Kujawa and three great-grandchildren, Rowan and Keaton Olkowski and Axel Kujawa who were the light of her life. Donella cherished her many nieces, nephews and cousins. She was always spreading her love throughout the family.
After graduating high school, Donella dedicated over 35 years of service to the Cass County Friend of the Court, retiring as a knowledgeable and respected Caseworker Supervisor. Her colleagues remember her as a pillar of strength and wisdom, whose presence uplifted the spirits of all who worked alongside her.
A devout Christian, Donella was an active member of Hope Community Church, where she found great solace and fellowship in bible studies. Her faith was the cornerstone of her existence, guiding her through life's challenges with grace and resilience.
Donella's zest for life was evident in her many passions. She was the heart of her family, known for her exceptional cooking skills that brought everyone together around the dinner table. Her spunk and sass were as much a part of her as her generous spirit, making every gathering memorable and full of laughter.
Traveling to Vegas with her girls and to California to visit family was among Donella's favorite adventures, but she was equally content cheering on her grandchildren at their sporting events, always the proudest supporter in the stands. Her smile was infectious, her heart kind, and her energy boundless. Even in the face of adversity, she was a fighter who never slowed down, approaching every day with the same optimistic and bubbly demeanor that endeared her to all.
Donella's brother, Steve (Denise) Walgren, her brother-in-law's, Roger Kujawa (Vicki Martin), Gerald Kujawa (Mary Louise), Dick (Pat) Kujawa, Ed Kujawa, along with the rest of her family and friends, will remember her as the embodiment of love, optimism, and faith. Her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the lives of those she has left behind, a reminder of the profound impact one person's love and kindness can have on the world.
A visitation to honor Donella will take place November 7, 2025, at Mission Hills Memorial Chapel from 1-3 p.m. with a committal service directly following visitation at Mission Hills Memorial Gardens. Donella's Celebration of Life will immediately follow at the Milton Township Hall.
As we bid farewell to Donella Irene (Walgren) Kujawa, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and cherish the memories that will forever be etched in our hearts. Her kindness, her laughter, and her unwavering positivity will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
Photos, memories, and condolences can be left for the family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com
Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services.