

Predeceased by her beloved husband Elmer in 1998, Donna leaves behind her three sons: Darren, Brian (Susan), and Greg (Gloria), all of Calgary. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Sean (Syenna), Kyle (Amy), David (Reet), Lyndsey (Andrew), Natasha, Samuel, Liana, Peter (Tamarix), and Alec, and a cherished great-grandmother to Peyton and Carter (Sean and Syenna).
Donna was born on November 21, 1936, in Spruce Lake, Saskatchewan, to Anne and Peter Foster. As an only child growing up on the family farm, she was deeply involved in the day-to-day life and chores that shaped her strong work ethic and caring nature.
After graduating high school, Donna attended nursing college in Saskatoon, earning her nursing degree in 1957. She began her career working in hospitals in Saskatoon, where she met the love of her life, Elmer. The two were married in July of 1959 and began a life filled with adventure and family.
As an air traffic controller, Elmer's career brought the family to several communities over the years, including Saskatoon, Goose Bay, Winnipeg, Devon, and Calgary.
Through every move, Donna embraced each chapter wholeheartedly, raising their three boys with unwavering love and dedication.
In retirement, Donna and Elmer chose to settle in Cochrane on a beautiful riverside property in West Terrace. Shortly after their move, Elmer sadly succumbed to ALS. Donna loved her home and the community so deeply that she remained there independently for the next 27 years.
Donna lived life fully and joyfully. She was rarely still - often found golfing, curling, playing horseshoes, bocce, or darts. She was an active member of many local social organizations, including the Cochrane Lioness Club and the Royal Canadian Legion in Cochrane.
Donna will be remembered most for her kindness, generosity, and deep love for her family. She was always ready to lend a helping hand, offering warmth, laughter, and a welcoming smile to everyone around her.
Always one to avoid a fuss, Donna requested that no formal funeral service be held. A Celebration of Donna’s Life for family and friends will take place at Cochrane Lions Event Center, 109 5 Avenue, Cochrane Alberta on Saturday, May 23, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly invites you to honour Donna’s memory through a donation to a charity of your choice.
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