Obituary for Donna Lee Paper

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I feel fortunate and deeply privileged to have shared part of life’s journey with Donna. To say she had a profound impact on my life and on everyone around her would be an understatement. She leaves behind beautiful memories for those of us continuing to travel on our train of life. She will be deeply missed. Train of Life By Jean d'Ormesson At birth, we boarded the train of life and met our parents, and we believed that they would always travel by our side. However, at some stations, our parents would step down from the train, leaving us on life's journey alone. As time goes by, some significant people will board the train: siblings, other children, friends, and even the love of our life. Many will step down and leave a permanent vacuum. Others will go so unnoticed that we won't realize that they vacated their seats! This train ride has been a mixture of joy, sorrow, fantasy, expectations, hellos, goodbyes, and farewells. A successful journey consists of having a good relationship with all passengers, requiring that we give the best of ourselves. The mystery that prevails is that we do not know at which station we will step down ourselves. Thus, we must try to travel along the track of life in the best possible way - loving, forgiving, giving, and sharing. When the time comes for us to step down and leave our seat empty - we should leave behind beautiful memories for those who continue to travel on the train of life. Let’s remember to thank our Creator for giving us life to participate in this journey. I close by thanking Donna for being one of the passengers on my train! Carl Odom

Dear Ron and family, We were deeply saddened to hear of Donna’s passing. Donna was one of those rare and beautiful people whose presence made life brighter. She came into my life when she and Ron were living in The Netherland and from the very beginning she and Ron welcomed me with open arms, warmth, kindness, and love. Over the years, we shared so many wonderful adventures and unforgettable memories together — skiing, traveling to Tunisia, riding camels and our visit to Iowa, where we enjoyed their hospitality and unforgettable moments by the Mississippi River. Just having so much fun and simply enjoying each other’s company. Donna and Ron were also present at the baptism of Mitchell, which meant so much to me and our family. She left a lasting impression on all of us. She was such a remarkable woman — caring, thoughtful, compassionate, and always genuinely interested in others. She had a beautiful spirit, a generous heart, and a playful spark and sense of humor that made her such a delight to be around. Whether we spoke often or not, the love and connection never faded. She held a special place in our hearts and always will. Mitchell and I feel incredibly grateful to have known Donna and to have shared part of our lives with her. We will miss her deeply, remember her lovingly, and carry her memory with us always. Our hearts go out especially to you, Ron, her devoted and dearly beloved husband, and to the children, grandchildren, and all who were blessed to know and love her. We hope you find comfort in the countless lives she touched and in the beautiful memories that will live on forever. With love, sympathy, and heartfelt condolences, Christa, Mitchell and family