Donna Jean Maltais

Donna always said “You know me, I’m a ‘Depression Baby’.” She was born to Jack Marshall and Maureen Solgjeld on March 29, 1932, in Everett, Washington. She had four siblings: Terry, Michael, Kim, and Kelly. She graduated from Everett High School. Donna went on to marry the love of her life, Gordon Donald Maltais, and was happily married for 50 years. They had one son; Mardy Maltais. They were owners and operators of the Northwest Shake Mill until their retirement. They lived together in the home they built on the Wynoochee Valley River for over 40 years.

Donna was multitalented. She had a flair for fashion, always wearing orange nail polish with matching orange lipstick. She adored interior & exterior design, and playing the piano. She was an avid roller-skater, and even taught roller-skating lessons when she was young. Donna also loved entertaining family and friends. One such event was the 1986 Miss Grays Harbor Pageant. She opened her beautiful home to 14 contestants, their chaperones, all the pageant staff, and Miss Washington of 1985. She served snacks throughout the day and lunch. She was a very gracious host. Miss Washington rested in her beautiful bedroom, and Donna provided the silver glittered chain-belt that completed her outfit on stage that night.

Donna always lived by the wise words of her Grandma “Phan”: Always be loving and kind. Forever upbeat, she had the wisdom of a teacher, the sincerity of a true, best friend, and the tenderness of a mother. She loved her grandkids, always overlooking their faults, encouraging their dreams, and praising their every success. She was a little bit parent, a little bit teacher, and a little bit best friend.

Donna is preceded in death by her husband Gordon D. Maltais, her brother Mike Marshall, her father, Jack Marshall, and her mother, Maureen Solgjeld.

Donna is survived by her son Mardy Maltais; her grandchildren Lisa Chambers, Shawn Maltais, and Gordon Maltais; and her great-grandchildren Braden Maltais, Eric Calica, Zack Parker, Nick Chambers, Kassidy Parker, and Jasmine Chambers.

The family would like to thank Silver Acres for their compassion, empathy, the excellent care facility, and wonderful staff. The family also thanks Centralia Providence Hospital staff for their outstanding care.

A memorial service for Donna will be announced by the family at a later time.