Donna Rae Persinger

Donna Rae Harbertson Persinger passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on May 16, 1944, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Darlene Steed who she loved and admired as her Heroine and Ray Martin Harbertson. Born during WWII, Donna's early life was shaped by resilience and strength—qualities that would define her journey.

At age eight, Donna courageously battled a severe case of polio, spending months in an iron lung. Her determination and the unwavering support of her family helped her recover. Donna’s childhood was full of love, adventure, and lifelong friendships, especially with her dearest friends Sharyl and Pat, with whom she shared over six decades of memories.

Donna attended Ben Lomond High School, graduating in 1962, and later met the love of her life, Charles “Charlie” Persinger, at Weber State College. They married on December 15, 1967, and began a life filled with adventure, love, and devotion. Together they raised two children, Casey and Cara, living in various parts of the country including Wisconsin, Washington, California, and eventually back to Utah.

Donna was a woman of deep faith, service, and hard work. She was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She had an unwavering testimony and served in many callings including Primary, Young Women, and Relief Society. She shared a Christ-like love to all who knew her. She found immense joy in her career with the Davis School District, serving first as a school cook and later as a manager and leader in the district’s food processing facility. Her 30-year career was marked by innovation, leadership, and a commitment to nourishing students with love and care.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Donna was a talented homemaker and creative soul. She was a wonderful baker, known especially for her pies and artisan breads. She loved to garden, preserving and sharing the produce with family, friends, and neighbors. She was always willing to teach this skill to anyone who wanted to learn. Donna had a passion for collecting new recipes—clipping them from newspapers and magazines and then trying them out for her family. She was also a gifted seamstress who sewed, quilted, cross stitched and knitted with care and precision. Holidays were especially meaningful to her, and she celebrated each one with joy and enthusiasm.

Above all, Donna cherished her family. Her greatest joys in life have been at home, loving and serving her family. No other thing in life brought her more happiness than being surrounded by her family. She supported them in their various activities cheering them on. She and Charlie created a beautiful life. Part of it on ten acres in West Point, raising animals and making memories. She adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and her legacy lives on through them.

Donna’s life was one of faith, friendship, perseverance, and purpose. She was a loving wife, devoted mother, proud grandmother and great-grandmother, and loyal friend. Her impact will be felt for generations.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Charlie; her children, Casey, and Cara (Mark); grandchildren Miles (Rebecca), Elizabeth, Spencer, and Chase; and great-grandchildren Jack and Luca. She was preceded in death by her “brother dear,” Mike Harbertson.

Funeral Services will be held Saturday, April 19, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the West Point 10th Ward Chapel (2852 West 300 North, West Point, Utah). Friends may visit with the family Friday, April 18, from 6 to 8 p.m. and Saturday morning from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the church. Interment, Ogden City Cemetery.

Condolences may be shared at: www.lindquistmortuary.com

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