Donna Kitelinger

1940 - 2026

Clinton, WI - Donna M. Kitelinger, 85, of Clinton, WI, passed away on Monday, March 9, 2026 at St. Mary's Hospital in Madison, WI. She was born September 17, 1940 in Lomira, WI, the daughter of Carroll P. and Rosetta (Esselman) Rusch. Donna was a 1958 Clinton High School graduate. She married Richard N. Kitelinger on November 29, 1958 in Our Lady of Assumption Catholic Church in Beloit, WI. He predeceased her on April 8, 2009. Donna was formerly employed by Clinton School District in the kitchen, and later Alden Meadow Park in Clinton, WI as the Food Service Director for 25 years retiring in 2005. She was known for having a heart of gold and would help anyone in need. Donna enjoyed following all Wisconsin sports; she was an avid Green Bay Packer, Milwaukee Brewer, and Wisconsin Badger fan. She had a love for the outdoors, gardening, traveling, cooking, and baking. Family and friends were very important to her, attending children and grandchildren events, and Euchre games. Donna cherished and loved her family and her beloved dog Toby. Survivors include her children, Jody (David) Bilstrom of Oro Valley, AZ, Jim (Connie) Kitelinger of Beloit, WI, Jackie (Robb) Karess of Boxborough, MA, and Jon Kitelinger of McFarland, WI; grandchildren, Dylan Bilstrom, Tierney Bilstrom, Dustin (Chrissy) Lervik, Ashley Lervik, Braden Karess, Colby Karess, and Quint Karess; great grandchildren, Kaya Lervik and Peyton Lervik; siblings, Richard (Kathy) Rusch of Clinton, WI and Michael (Laura) Rusch of Clinton, WI; sister-in-law, Kitty Rusch of Arkdale, WI; many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents; brothers, Duane and Carl Rusch; grandson, Tanner Kitelinger; and sister-in-law, Pat Rusch. A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial for Donna will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 in Our Lady of Assumption Catholic Church, 2222 Shopiere Rd, Beloit, WI, with Fr. Jim Murphy officiating. A visitation of remembrance will be from 10:30 until 11:45 a.m. in the church. Daley Murphy Wisch & Associates Funeral Home and Crematorium, 2355 Cranston Rd., assisted the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.daleymurphywisch.com