Donna Lee Wheeler

Donna Lee Wheeler, 84, passed peacefully on March 2, 2026, and was welcomed home into the loving arms of her Lord and Savior. Born on April 21, 1941, to the late John and Martha Wheeler, Donna lived a life beautifully defined by faith, artistry, generosity, and devotion to family.

A proud longtime resident of Redford, Michigan, Donna was a faithful and devoted member of Christ the King Catholic Church. Her Catholic faith was the foundation of her life - steady, unwavering, and evident in every act of kindness she extended. She was immensely proud of her Polish heritage and cherished traveling the world, especially to Poland, where she felt deeply connected to her roots and ancestry.

Donna was a gifted graphic artist and painter whose creativity was both her calling and her joy. She lovingly signed each piece of art "Donnalee Designs," often saying an artwork was never truly finished until it bore her signature. That signature symbolized excellence, heart, and authenticity. Her talent earned her recognition and awards, yet what mattered most to her was inspiring others through beauty.

During her year at Rose Senior Living, Donna transformed her room into a vibrant gallery of 105 watercolor paintings. Her space radiated warmth, color, and imagination. In just one year, she formed meaningful bonds, and the residents and staff quickly became like family. The outpouring of love at her passing is a testament to the light she brought into their lives.

Donna never met a stranger. She loved traveling, collecting treasured souvenirs from around the world, and engaging in heartfelt conversations wherever she went. She found joy in flowers and gardening, nurturing beauty from the earth. In her younger years, she embraced adventure through skiing. She cherished family traditions and made it her mission to keep them alive, ensuring faith, love, and togetherness remained at the center of every gathering.

Each Christmas, Donna personally designed and handcrafted customized cards, thoughtfully tailored to each recipient. No two were ever the same - because no two people were the same to her. She was extraordinarily generous, always giving more than she took. A philanthropist in both spirit and action, her life reflected selfless love.

She lived by the cherished Polish proverb:
"Kto daje, dwa razy daje" - "Who gives, gives twice."

Donna gave her art.
She gave her time.
She gave her faith.
She gave her heart.

Her signature remains on canvas, but her greatest masterpiece was the life she lived and the love she shared.

May she rest in eternal peace, embraced by the Lord she so faithfully served.

Donna is survived by her loving sister, Diane Craner; her adored nephew, Kirk Craner; many beloved great-nieces and great-nephews; along with many cherished cousins and great-cousins who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts. She was preceded in death by her nephew, Craig Craner.

Donna's family is planning a celebration of her life at a later date. Please check back for more details.

Please keep Donna and her family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.