Donna Isabell Belt

She was surrounded by family, who had welcomed her into their home following a two-week hospital stay. Donna had faced a number of health challenges in recent years.

Donna was born on December 22, 1944, in La Grande, Oregon. During her early childhood, she moved with her parents, John and Mabel Galbreath, to the Methow Valley, settling first in Winthrop and later in Twisp after the birth of her younger sister. She attended school in Twisp and graduated with the Class of 1963.

Following graduation, Donna attended Kinman Business School in Spokane, Washington. She began her professional career at Eastern Washington University in Cheney before relocating to Portland, Oregon. There, she began a long and dedicated career with U.S. Bank, where she worked for 32 years. Afterward, she joined Freightliner (now Daimler Trucks), where she worked for another 10 years before retiring.

On July 11, 1971, Donna married Ronald Ray Belt in Reno, Nevada. Together they welcomed their daughter, Staci Jean. Donna and Ron shared 10 years of marriage before Ron’s sudden passing in 1981.

In retirement, Donna enjoyed collecting dolls and caring for her beloved cats—her last companion being Fred, who has since found a loving home.

Donna is survived by her daughter, Staci Jean Ryerse (Craig); her sister, Billie J. De La Cruz (Harold); brother-in-law, Brian Belt; sister-in-law, Cathy; and two nieces, Chris and Heather. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Mabel Galbreath; her in-laws, Harley and Georgia Belt; and her nephew, Kevin.

In honor of Donna’s memory, contributions may be made to the Glacier National Park Conservancy at P.O. Box 2749, Columbia Falls, MT 59912.