Donna Jean Carter

Donna Jean Carter, age 92, passed away on April 13, 2026. She lived a life of hard work mixed with fun. Starting her own business, Donna’s Hair Salon, in 1954 was an accomplishment that spoke to her strong spirit and business savvy. She loved time spent with her friends playing bridge, travelling, watching football - especially the Green Bay Packers and AZ Cardinals, along with many other adventures. At the core of her life was her family and faith.

Donna was born in Spring Valley, WI, to Ben and Inez Swenson. She experienced the loss of her father at the young age of two, a hardship that shaped her resilience. She graduated from Ellsworth High School with the Class of 1951 and went on to raise her family in River Falls, Wisconsin. In retirement, she moved to Sun Lakes, Arizona, where she and her husband, Frank Gombold, enjoyed life together in their home on the golf course.

Donna is preceded in death by her parents; loving husband, Frank; and sisters, Audrey Erickson and Beverly Gaard. She is survived by her children, Greg Carter of River Falls, WI and Cari Carter (Randy Bos) of Scottsdale, AZ; her grandchildren, Tara Carter, Samantha Carter, Jacob Bos, and Samantha Bos; and two great grandchildren, Hayden and Hunter Carter-Schweisz. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews who she dearly loved.

Donna will be remembered for her loyalty to family and friends, her contagious laughter, and her gift for storytelling through recalling life events.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service to be held at Ezekiel Lutheran Church, 202 S 2nd St, River Falls, WI 54022 on Friday, May 1, 2026. A gathering will begin at 1:00 p.m. with the service to follow.