She was born on November 5, 1952, in Pittsburgh, PA. Melanie spent her early years in Nashville, TN before moving to Arkansas where she graduated from Fayetteville High School and the University of Arkansas. She then earned her master’s in education from the University of Texas.
Melanie was an elementary school teacher for over 35 years spending most of that time in Texas. She developed a love for teaching and education as she came from three generations of education leaders in the family.
As a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Melanie was active in the Ladies Auxiliary, Honor Guard and the Prayer Shawl Ministry. In addition, she was a Master Gardener. Melanie was a passionate pet lover who rescued and cared for many “fur babies” over the years.
Melanie was preceded in death by her parents, E. H. “Al” and Mauryne Donaubauer and her brother, Craig Donaubauer. Her parents moved to Texas in retirement, and it was Melanie that cared for them in their final years. She is survived by her brother, Allyn Donaubauer, and his wife Janice of Fort Smith. A nephew, Blake Donaubauer of New Orleans, LA., his wife, Teahnna, and their children, Blue and Eleanor. A niece, Natalie Hedrick and her husband, Chris of Fort Smith, AR. She is also survived by her “sister by another mother” and partner in crime, Mary Allen.
A Memorial Mass will be held on Monday, February 24th at 11:00am at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. A private family interment at the Columbarium will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, P.O. Box 1866, Fort Smith, AR 72902 or Almost Home Animal Shelter, 707 N. 22nd St., Van Buren, AR 72956.
Melanie loved a fun family get together, a cozy cloudy day, and a VERY cold beer.
