Donna Joyce Cramer

Donna Joyce (Opie) Cramer, long-time resident of Ada and member of Ada Congregational Church, passed away peacefully on January 15 with family at her bedside. She was born in Flint on April 9, 1938 to Mildred (Paull) and Forrest Opie. Donna was a graduate of Michigan State University and began her elementary school teaching career in Grand Rapids. She continued teaching until she retired from Beech Elementary in Cedar Springs. Donna will be greatly missed by her husband of 58 years, Bill; sons, Steve (Karin), and Don; grandchildren, Cody, Gretchen (Kohl) VanBonn, Cami, Megan & fiancé Jim Dufort; sister, Patricia DeMoss; and nieces, Denise (Tom) Kilpatrick, Deb (John) Swanson, Darcy (Bart) Bierer, and Donna Jane “Janie” (Kelly) Peasley. She was preceded in death by her infant daughter, parents, and nieces, Diane Liggett and Darla Ruegsegger. Donna will be lovingly remembered for her thoughtful and generous spirit, and her love of family, nature, music, and art. She enjoyed cooking and baking for the family, reading, painting, playing the piano, and sewing. Along with her busy lifestyle, Donna managed Type I diabetes for more than 50 years. A private family graveside service will be held at Ada Cemetery. Those desiring may make contributions to the Grand Rapids Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired, 456 Cherry St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 or Kids’ Food Basket, 1300 Plymouth Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505.