Donna Mae Neeser

Donna Mae (Schlundt) Neeser, age 89, passed away on February 10, 2024, in her home with family and friends by her side. Donna's confirmation verse was, And behold I am with you always, to the end of the age (Matthew 28:20). This verse was very important to her, and she clung to her faith in Jesus, even as she died, holding a small wooden cross made specially for her.
Donna was born on July 1, 1934 to Frederick Schlundt and Lydia (Heyn) Schlundt. She married Richard L. Neeser, Sr. of South Bend, Indiana on September 10, 1955, at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in South Bend. Donna and Dick were introduced by her lifelong best friend and future sister-in-law, Judy (Hipsak) Neeser.
Donna led a life well-lived, a life well loved. Her love and selflessness touched many people. She knew her Redeemer and Savior, Jesus Christ. She enjoyed family gatherings, was a big Notre Dame fan and loved to watch football. She was a wonderful cook, famous for her fried chicken, beef and noodles, mayonnaise cake and pumpkin chiffon pie. She was a classy lady that appreciated attention to small details. Donna attended South Bend Central High School before moving to Berrien Springs and graduating with the class of 1952.
Donna is survived by her two sons Richard (Diane) Neeser, Jr., and David (Gretchen) Neeser; grandchildren Michael (Kylie), Mark (Aubrey), Timothy (Jessica), Ashley, Emily, Kallen, and Kenneth Neeser and great-grandchildren Luke, Lakelyn, Tilly and Theodore. Surviving step-siblings include Janice Tropp, Dwane (Nancy) Knuth, Bill (Sue) Knuth, Marji Oberlander and Russ Spoto, and her half- sister Peggy Livengood. Donna is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews.
Preceding her in death are her husband of forty-two years, Dick Neeser; sisters Norma Jean (Norm) Klemz, Nancy (Dale) Whetstone; half-sister Joanne Reynolds; step-siblings Barbara (Bud) Totzke, Dale (Evelyn-living) Knuth and Audrey Brohman.
Visitation will be held at Kaniewski Funeral Home, 3545 N Bendix Drive, South Bend from 4-7 PM Friday, February 16th. Services will be held at St. Peter Lutheran Church, 437 E Dragoon Trail, Mishawaka on Saturday, February 17th at 10:30 AM. Visitation at the church will occur one hour before the service. Burial will occur at Highland Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Derek Jahn Foundation for Cancer Research at derekjahn.com.
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