Donna Hennigh

Born on Christmas Eve, 1937, in Longmont, Colorado, to Leroy and Bessie Rider, Donna was a proud descendant of early pioneers to the Colorado Territory.

On January 29, 1955, she married the love of her life, Gary Hennigh. This January, they celebrated seventy remarkable years together. Donna and Gary shared a deep love of travel that took them to all fifty states, most of Europe, as well as much North Africa, and the Caribbean. They visited presidential homes, family heritage sites, and dined at both the White House and the Kremlin. A devoted student of history, Donna earned her bachelor’s degree from Columbia College, graduating summa cum laude as valedictorian, and later a master’s in history from the University of Missouri. She even participated in archaeological digs in France, Italy, and Wales. She was always eager to discover something new.

Donna had a deep and abiding faith in Jesus Christ. She believed in God’s plan, even when life presented difficult chapters. As a teenager, she overcame polio and later, breast cancer, with quiet strength, grace, and faith. These moments, rather than defining her, deepened her compassion and trust in God.

She was also deeply engaged in civic life, active in local, state, and national politics. Known for her tireless advocacy, Donna had a gift for welcoming others, especially those not always included, and believed everyone deserved a voice and a seat at the table.

Above all, Donna cherished her family. Whether around the table, on the road, or across generations, her greatest joy was time spent with loved ones. Though a small lady, she had arms long enough to embrace a big and beautiful family: her husband, Gary; four children; Stanton Hennigh of Hermann, Missouri, Pamela Hulen (Soc) of Columbia, Lisa Cowan (John) of Leawood, Kansas, and Quinton Hennigh (Heather) of Longmont, Colorado; twelve grandchildren; and soon, eighteen great-grandchildren. She gave them her full love and thoughtful guidance which will never be forgotten.

True to form, Donna is preparing a place in heaven for Gary, with chairs pulled up and ready for family and friends. She always loved preparing for guests.

In lieu of flowers, Donna would want you to plant one. Let it bloom and bring beauty into each day; a testimony to her loving and enduring legacy.Contributions may be made to the March of Dimes, St. Luke’s Children’s Hospital, Shriners Hospitals for Children, or the American Cancer Society.