Donna Jean Nissen

Born in Omaha, Nebraska, on July 1, 1949, to Don and Iris Gustafson, Donna grew up in Denison, Iowa, where she formed lifelong values of kindness, curiosity, and hard work.

Donna married the love of her life, Ron Nissen, on April 4, 1970. Together, they built a life filled with love and family, raising two sons, Matthew and David in Jefferson, IA.

She pursued her passion for technology, earning a degree as a non-traditional student in Computer Programming from Iowa State University. She worked as a computer programmer from 1990 until her retirement in 2007 at Hallmark Cards in Kansas City, MO.

She was a devoted mother and cherished her role as a grandmother to her beloved grandsons, Derek and Liam.

Donna never sat still—whether she was trying new recipes on her family, researching ancestry and reaching out to new relatives, knitting with her dear friends "The Hookers & KnitWits," reading with her book club, working on puzzles, or helping her neighbors, she was always on the move. She loved cheering on her Iowa State Cyclones and later became an enthusiastic Chiefs and Royals fan. But more than anything, Donna was known for her warmth, her kindness, and the genuine hugs she gave to family and friends, making everyone feel truly loved.

Her faith was an important part of her life, and she was an active member of Timothy Lutheran Church in Blue Springs, where she also sang in the choir.

She is survived by her loving husband, Ron; her sons Matthew (Brooke) and David

(Eve); her grandsons, Derek and Liam; her sister, Joyce (and family); and her brother, Larry (and family). Donna’s warmth, generosity, and boundless energy will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A Celebration of Life will take place at Timothy Lutheran Church - South Campus Saturday, March 15, 2025. Visitation 10:00 a.m. Service 11:00 a.m. with a luncheon to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the church in her memory.