Donna Jean Powers

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Donna Powers, a longtime resident of Brookings, South Dakota, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026, at the age of 80. Funeral Services have been set for 10:30am Friday January 9, 2026 at St Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, Faulkton, SD. Visitation will be held from 9:30am until the time of the funeral. Rude's Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Donna Jean Martschinske was born on June 16, 1945, in Faulkton, South Dakota. She grew up on a farmstead southwest of Faulkton and graduated from Faulkton High School. After graduation, she moved to Denver, Colorado, where she met Patrick Powers. Donna and Pat were married in July 1965, and together they raised three sons: James, Jason, and Justin. Donna embraced all that Colorado had to offer and shared that enthusiasm with her sons, taking them on countless outdoor activities that became the foundation of many cherished family memories.

During her years in Colorado, Donna devoted herself to being a stay-at-home mother while her boys were young, creating a home filled with love and care. As they grew older, she began working outside the home-first at Barber's Poultry and later at the University of Colorado Foundation, where she made meaningful contributions through her dedication and professionalism. Throughout these years, Donna also gave generously of her time to various church organizations, reflecting her strong faith and commitment to her community.

In 2001, Donna moved back to South Dakota to be closer to family. She worked at First Bank and Trust in Brookings, South Dakota, and embraced her new chapter with grace and joy. While living in Brookings, Donna enjoyed attending singles dances, where she met Gene Nitschke. Donna and Gene shared a loving and committed relationship until his passing in 2021.

She is survived by her three sons: James (Adrianne) Powers of Ames, Iowa; Jason (Ronna) Powers of Erie, Colorado; and Justin (Becky) Powers of Ward, South Dakota. She was also a proud grandmother to Madisen, Falyn, and Payton, who brought her endless joy.

Donna is also survived by her siblings Susan Laubach, Gloria Barber, Donald Martschinske, and Gary Martschinske, and was preceded in death by her sisters Marilyn Fetters and Judy Kellar.

Donna will be remembered for her warmth, kindness, and the deep connections she nurtured throughout her life. Her legacy lives on in the love she shared and the memories she created with her family and friends.