Doneta Marie “Donnie” Robertson age 87 of Raytown passed away peacefully on Sunday June 23, 2019 at St Luke’s Hospice House. She was born on June 29, 1931 in Garden City, Missouri to George and Lillian D. (Brandt) Gatz. She married James “Jim” M. Robertson on March 21, 1952 in Bentonville, Arkansas. Jim preceded her in death on April 2, 1997.
In addition to the love of her life, Donnie was preceded in death by her parents, brother and son, Todd Robertson. She is survived by: her son: Tyson (wife: Maria) Robertson of Independence, MO, their children, Caitlin and Calvin, great grand-child, Jameson. Her Daughter in Law, Gena Robertson of Lee’s Summit, MO, and her and Todd’s children, Keenan and Evan.
Doneta’s zest for life and love was contagious. Her caring nature and thoughtfulness for others led her to teach Home Economics for over thirty years, most of which were spent at Truman High School in Independence, MO. She cherished the memories she made in her classroom. She loved running into former students while she was out and about. She made sure to impart upon her grandchildren how taking the time to thank a former teacher was one of the greatest joys that could be given.
Donnie also worked as a licensed beautician prior to her teaching career and continued to enjoy doing hair for friends and family throughout her life. Always a fun experience to sit in her chair.
Donnie was never one for rainy days or bad moods. Where she was, the sun seemed to shine, even on the bleakest of days. Her smile lit up any room she was in, and her laughter illuminated even brighter. Her sense of humor and wit remained intact and seemed to sharpen with the years. She enjoyed telling dirty jokes and off-color stories. She scoffed at the idea that she was too old or “prude”. She was a very direct communicator. No guessing about where one stood with her.
She was able to laugh at herself, an important quality to have amongst the jokesters in her family. Rather than hide anything, Donnie would make sure to share when she misplaced items, lost her keys, put toast in the cabinet, forgot something she was going to say, etc. She wanted to make sure everyone knew that MawMaw was still “losing it”, in case they were worried. We never did find that little old lady that lived in her house.
There are too many memories to list, but her family will especially cherish the Christmas Celebrations in her home. Not only would she host, cook, and clean for the gathering, but she also wrote creative Scavenger Hunts every year. Competing for the clues and being first to the end is a tradition that will be held dear in the hearts of all who participated.
Donnie lived a life that was full of love and kindness, laughter and joy. Her love for her family was beyond compare. She was never too busy to listen to your problems. She always wanted to help. Her smile, generosity, and kindness will be missed by everyone that was lucky enough to know her.
Contributions may be made in her name to: American Diabetes Association 7285 West 132nd Street Overland Park, Kansas 66213.
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