Donna Jean Walker, 80, of Valley City, ND, formerly of Tower City, ND, passed away on November 14, 2025, at Sanford Hospital in Fargo. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 29, 2025, in the Lerud Mathias Funeral Home Chapel, with visitation one hour prior to the service. She will be laid to rest in the Fargo National Veterans Cemetery. The service will be livestreamed and later archived on her tribute page at www.lerudmathias.com, where an online guestbook is also available.
Donna was born on September 18, 1945, in Elk River, MN, to James and Adelia (Standish) Roy and grew up in Arthide, MN. She graduated from Willow River High School in Willow River, MN, in 1963.
On July 4, 1964, Donna met Allen E. Walker of Bruno, MN. After a short six-week courtship, they knew it was true love, and they married on August 28, 1964. From that moment on, their life together was filled with love, adventure, travel, and raising their four children. This year, Donna and Allen celebrated 61 years together.
Donna and Allen made a life through the Navy and later the Coast Guard. While Allen was deployed, Donna cared for their children and helped them adjust through the many moves that came with military life. She lived in the Philippines with Allen before returning to the United States in 1967. She took great pride in the responsibilities and standards expected of an officer’s wife when Allen earned his commission. After Allen’s final retirement, they made their home in Tower City, ND.
Donna enjoyed many hobbies over the years, including traveling, crafting, cross-stitching, embroidery, wood burning, gardening, and cooking. She loved shopping online, surfing the internet, and staying connected with family and friends on Facebook. Anyone who was her “friend” looked forward to her posts—and especially her witty replies. Though small in stature, Donna was determined and capable, especially when told she couldn’t do something.
Whether she was busy on her iPad or watching antique shows, Donna was always ready to listen and offer support. She loved fiercely, openly, and without question. Donna was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, and she will be missed more than words can express.
“Finally, you’re no longer in pain. Now you can rest in peace, Mom. We will always love you.”
Honorary pallbearers are her 15 grandchildren.
Donna is survived by her husband, Allen; her children: Greg Walker (Tawnya Walker), Deneen Castle, Patsy Hanson (Kevin Hanson), and Noelani Gordy (Chad Gordy); 15 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her sister, Betty Cottrell, and her parents, Adelia and Jim Roy.