Donna Marie Cartwright

Donna Marie Cartwright, age 92, stepped into eternity to be with her Savior on November 7, 2025, surrounded by her family. She was born on April 16, 1933, to Frank and Emma (Wilke) Thiel in Weyauwega. On September 20, 1952, Donna married Melvin “Mel” Cartwright and until his passing in May of 2025, the two shared a remarkable love story that often was expressed in the simple gesture of holding hands. Donna was known for her wonderful sense of humor and enjoyed spending time with her family…Saturday morning coffee always became an adventure.

Donna and Mel shared a passion for camping. Too, they enjoyed time spent in square dancing clubs for 50+ years. Donna was a gifted homemaker and loved to cook to feed her family (and friends), was an excellent baker of pies, canned, and enjoyed sewing. She also collected Avon bottles. For many years, she was involved as a choir member as well as a Girls Pioneer leader at church and enjoyed sharing her deep faith with others.

In addition to camping locally, Donna and Mel wintered for many years in Mission, TX-having travelled there in their trusty camper. She enjoyed mall-walking, watching the birds, gardening and playing cards. These activities were made all the more special because they were things she and Mel did TOGETHER. Donna held close the Cartwright family secret recipe for Brandy/Whiskey Slush-served especially at Christmastime. There is no doubt her family will be celebrating her homegoing this year with a once-again refining of that old family tradition.

Donna is survived by her children: Jim (Sher) Cartwright, and Al (Julie) Cartwright; grandchildren: Joston (Heidi) Cartwright, Joshua (Christina) Starner, Jolene Cartwright, Griffen (Lexi) Cartwright and Madison Cartwright; and great grandchildren: Jared, Bryce, Alivia, Brayden, Leah, Dominic, Hannah, Aria, Jay and Talon; son-in-law Bob Starner; brother Alvin Thiel; nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband Mel, her daughter LuAnn Starner; granddaughter Leslie Starner; her parents Frank and Emma Thiel.

A funeral service for Donna will take place on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at 5:00pm, at Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church, W7265 School Road, Greenville. Friends and family may gather at the church from 3:00pm until the service begins. Donna will be laid to rest, reunited with her beloved at Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery, Greenville.

A special note of gratitude to Maddie, Hailey and nurse Linda as well as Al and Julie for the loving comfort they provided to Donna these last 6 months.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church in Donna's name.