Donna M. Budnik

Donna M. Budnik

July 7, 1939 – October 18, 2024

Donna M. Budnik, 85, of Fond du Lac, WI, passed away peacefully at home on October 18, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born on July 7, 1939, to Jenny and Harvey Lapene, Donna was the eldest of four siblings: Bill, Judy, and Debbie.

Donna was the devoted wife of Tom, a retired police officer, standing proudly by his side throughout his career. She also embraced her role as a First Mate, sharing her husband’s love for boating and the water. Beyond her many roles, Donna was an incredibly creative and talented woman. She loved arts and crafts, always finding joy in making things by hand, whether it was for her family, and friends, or simply to brighten someone’s day. She was an exceptional baker, known for filling her home with the delicious aromas of homemade treats. Donna also had a gift for hosting gatherings, where her warmth and hospitality made everyone feel at home.

She is survived by her loving husband, Tom, and her children, Sheri and Greg, who were by her side in her final moments. Donna was the proud and loving mother of six children, Claudia (Phil) Barron, Greg (Becky) Budnik, Jeanine (Brian) Bobber, Jeff (Sandi) Budnik, Natalie (Mark) Tischer, and Sheri (Scott) Curran, cherished grandmother to 15, and beloved great-grandmother to 19.

Her family was the center of her world, and she left behind a legacy of love, strength, and compassion that will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew her. Donna’s gentle spirit, creativity, and generous nature will be deeply missed by all.

Visitation at the Max A. Sass & Sons Mission Hills Chapel on Saturday, November 9 from 10 - 11:30 AM. Memorial Service at 11:30 AM. in lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of Wisconsin in Donna’s name  Act.alz.org/goto/donnab.

May She Rest In Peace