Donna J Christiansen

Mankato Mortuary
1001 N. Riverfront Drive
Mankato, Minnesota 56001
507-388-2202

Donna Jean Christiansen passed away peacefully February 5, 2014 in Mankato, MN. Although ALS may have taken her life, it could not claim her exuberance for life and the joy she gave others.

Donna was born April 7, 1951 in St. Paul, MN to Melvin and Floy Christiansen. Donna was the eldest of her four siblings. She lived in a group home in Excelsior and Victoria, MN before moving to Mankato in 2008. Very much the social butterfly, Donna thoroughly enjoyed her time with family and friends at Community Living in Victoria, the Harry Meyering Center and LifeWorks. Favorite jobs included working at the Pizza Hut in Excelsior, making beds with housekeeping teams at the Garden Inn and "Kitty Care" at PetCo. Donna adored animals and it was clear the pet in the family was talked about before the people in her family! Independent is the word often used by those who knew and loved Donna. Donna enjoyed Kermit the Frog, polka music, cross stitch, puzzles, bowling, fishing, playing with the family dogs, visiting family and friends, going to church and life in general. She was known for her cheerful smile, greeting and a hug. One of her favorite comments was "That's a good thinking!" when complimenting someone on their good idea.

Donna's family extends a special thank you to the Harry Meyering Center for their love and care of Donna and to the Mayo Hospice Team for their care and support.

Donna is survived by sisters, Lynn (John) Klaber, North Mankato, MN and Sonja (Pat) Faust, Waconia MN; nieces and nephews, Megan (Klaber) Holleran, Matthew Klaber, Colin, Bryan and Cassie Faust, Sara Hansen, Michael and Marty Christiansen.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Paul and Gary, and grandparents.

A celebration of Donna's life will be held Saturday, February 8 at Messiah Lutheran Church in North Mankato at 1PM. Memorials to the Harry Meyering Center are preferred.