Donna Jean Mowder

Donna Jean (Durigg) Mowder died peacefully on April 1, 2025 after 94 years and 11 months of living. Not one to seek the spotlight, instead she possessed a quiet strength. Donna was always willing to lend a helping hand, do the work, or take the lead if needed.

She was born April 30, 1930 in Belmont, Ohio to Jacob and Ledria Durigg. A graduate of Muskingum College in elementary education, Donna met her future husband, John Mowder, when he gave her a ride home one weekend. (Truth be told, John knew right away she was the one. Donna, however, took a bit longer to be convinced since she was dating someone else.) Married in 1953, they moved to Westerville in 1958.

Over her lifetime, Donna took on many roles - second grade teacher for 5 years in Clintonville, Sunday school teacher, salesperson at The Union, Halles and Madisons in Northland Mall, American Cancer Society team leader, St. Ann's gift shop volunteer, 60+ year member of Church of The Messiah UMC, active member in Mary Circle and CCL.

She was most proud of being a wife of 63 years to John, and loving mother to Mark, Jane and Susan. Known for her handwritten cards and letters, she prefrred her computer for a mean game of Free Cell. Donna also loved a good book, a lively water aerobics class and riding her John Deere mower.

In her later years, she resided at Feridean Commons and Inn at Summit Trail. Both places provided wonderful care and made her feel loved. The family would also like to thank Capital City Hospice for providing excellent end of life care.

Survived by daughters, Jane and Susan. Donna was preceded in death by husband John and son Mark.

Calling hours will be from 1-3 pm on Saturday, April 5th at Church of The Messiah United Methodist Church, 51 N. State Street, Westerville followed by funeral service at 3 pm. Burial will be Monday, April 7 at 1 pm at Blendon Central Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations may be made to Capital City Hospice or Alzheimer's Association.