La Donna Kay Wolf

La Donna Kay Wolf “also known as Dee to her family and friends”, age 75, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2025, in her home, surrounded by her children. She was born on February 27, 1950, in Flint, Michigan to Arthur Peter Wolf Jr., and Violet Viola Gilbert

La Donna was the fourth of five girls (Tonda, Laura, Cici and Lou) and grew up in Flint, Michigan, where she attended school and graduated from High School and earned her AA degree at Lampson College. It was there that she met Pete, and together they had three children. Later in life, Donna met Ray, and they welcomed another child.

In time, La Donna met Michael Kelley, who became a steady, loving presence in their lives. He was the step-dad to all four children, and in their hearts, he was simply “Dad.”

For many years, La Donna was a single mother, and through every challenge, she remained the rock of her family. She worked tirelessly to provide for her children, supporting them in every way she could. She was present for their school activities, always showing up, cheering them on, and making sure they felt loved and encouraged.

La Donna studied business and finance, and soon after purchased her own tailor shop. She first worked as a seamstress, repairing clothing for others, before expanding her skills into designing and crafting leather racing gear for motorcycle riders. Later in life, her artistry took the form of quilt making. La Donna would spend her days working on quilts from morning until night, often sewing until her hands ached. Every stitch reflected her patience, dedication, and love, and her quilts became treasured keepsakes for many.

La Donna was strong and fiercely independent, with a generous heart and a willingness to help anyone in need. As the matriarch of her family, she was lovingly referred to as a “Tasmanian devil” — feisty, spirited, and never one to be crossed. Her children admired her toughness as much as they cherished her love, knowing she balanced her strength with an unwavering devotion to them.

La Donna loved holidays and went all out to celebrate. Christmas was a favorite, and she delighted in creating a festive experience for her family and neighborhood. Christmas was celebrated with great joy, beginning at midnight on Christmas Eve. La Donna’s specialty was preparing all the sweets and treats for Christmas Day — from candy, fudge, and rock candy to cheese balls. She was also renowned for her homemade meatballs and special sauce, a dish cherished by all who enjoyed her table. La Donna also loved Halloween and all the laughter and excitement the day brought.

La Donna had a unique generosity and thoughtful spirit, which extended to her love of Goodwill and thrift shopping. She often shopped for others, carefully placing items in boxes for family and friends. If the recipients didn’t show up, she would return the box and start again, a cycle that reflected her boundless desire to give and share joy.

La Donna also loved to travel, and her children were always happy to invite her along. She and Michael enjoyed a trip to Hawaii and a Caribbean cruise with their son and his family, and exploring local destinations such as Mexico, Sedona, and Jerome with Michael. They traveled together in their RV, embracing adventures near and far with enthusiasm and curiosity.

Survived by: Children: Dawna (husband Robert), Traci, Art (wife Wendy) and Ray; Grandchildren: Rudy, Tiffany, Sara, Louie, Roxanne, Jonathan, Joshua, Austin, and Candice: Great-grandchildren: Maddilyn, Eli, Kalove, Bella, Shawnee, Alexandra, Isah, Angelo, JoJo, Graban, Kymana and Deagan: Great Great Grandchildren, twin boys Alaka'i and Kaimana: Siblings, sister’s Lou and Tonda.

La Donna was greeted in heaven by her sisters Cici and Laura, her grandchildren Manny and Marcus, and her beloved parents.

La Donna’s family and friends will remember her as a woman of strength, kindness, and humor. She was devoted, feisty, and generous, leaving behind a legacy of love, warmth, and countless cherished memories. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Funeral services have not been scheduled.