Donna Kaufman Oe

Donna Kaufman Oe, 68, of Idaho Falls, passed away peacefully on May 10th, 2024, at Banner Gateway Medical Center in Gilbert, Arizona after her short but fierce battle with cancer. Donna was born on August 9th, 1955, in Dickinson, North Dakota to Mary Magdalene Kathrein Kaufman and Edward Michael Kaufman. She was the 5th of 9 children and often acted as “referee” for her four younger brothers. When Donna was young, the family relocated to Fromberg, Montana. She completed elementary and high school in Fromberg and continued her education at Billings Vocational Technical college.   

 

In December of 1983, Donna married Dale Oe in Belfield, North Dakota. Dale and Donna raised their children in North Dakota and Montana before settling in Idaho Falls, Idaho in 1988. Of the many titles Donna carried throughout her life, she was most proud of her roles as mother, wife, grandma, sister, daughter, and friend. Donna brightened every room she walked into and lived each day to its fullest.

 

Such a festive soul, she found joy in hosting celebrations and delighted in going the extra mile with décor, costumes, and merriment to make every special occasion truly memorable.  She will always be remembered as the supportive mom, fun grandma, and most enthusiastic cheerleader for her kids and grandkids. Her exuberant smile and playful demeanor livened up any celebration; if Donna was there, it was always a party. 

 

Donna was preceded in death by her parents (Mary and Edward Kaufman), brother (Joseph Kaufman), and daughter (Nicole Jeffers).

 

Donna is survived by her loving husband, Dale Oe of Idaho Falls, ID; Children—Laurie  Hansen (Mikkayla Oe, Diego Pena, Tonnya Hansen) of Montana, Scott Oe (Cecilia Oe, Drake Oe) of Boise, ID; Nicholas Oe of Boise, ID; Emily Oe of Boise, ID; Darla Oe of Billings, MT; Dean Oe of Billings, MT; Siblings—Evelyn (Dan) Hall, Bob Kaufman, Carol (Harvey) Nott, Ken (Liz) Kaufman, Curt (Tammy) Kaufman, Ed (Vicky) Kaufman, Doug Kaufman, Arnie (Dee) Kaufman, 16 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and dog-son Archie.

 

A Celebration of Life will be held for Donna in Idaho Falls, ID on June 21, 2024, with a Rosary at 10:30 am and a Funeral Mass at 11:00 am at Christ the King Church.  Following the Interment, a lunch will be held at the Christ the King Church Hall from 1:00 - 2:00 pm.