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Donna Marie Jesse, 77, of Storm Lake died peacefully from complications of Alzheimer’s Disease Saturday, Feb. 17, 2024, at Methodist Manor Retirement Community in Storm Lake.
A Celebration of Life will take place as a come and go event on Saturday, May 18, from 4-8 p.m. at Cobblestone Ballroom in Lakeside. Fratzke & Jensen Funeral Home in Storm Lake is in charge of the arrangements.
Donna was born July 1, 1946, the daughter of Donald and Phyllis Zimmerman in Sac City. Donna attended school in Sac City graduating in 1964.
Donna was united in marriage to Jerry LaFever in 1967. They were blessed with two children, Lynn and Brandon. They were later divorced.
In 1994 Donna was united in marriage to Paul Jesse. It was during this union that she acquired the nickname “Princess.”
Donna was a partner of Lakeshore Cafe, starting in 1978, until her retirement in 2009. As a partner, she ran a tight ship, ensuring impeccable service. Her spunky personality and no-nonsense approach became well known by both staff and customers.
Donna had a passion for maintaining cleanliness. Her house was always immaculate, and she diligently followed along with a washcloth, ensuring no mess was left behind.
The word “honestly” peppered her conversations. Donna never minced words; her candor was both direct and compassionate. Her children sought her advice, knowing they would receive candid wisdom.
Donna loved entertaining friends at the farm. Whether it was a televised game, birthday party or an impromptu get-together, she always knew how to have fun.
One of Donna’s biggest joys was Christmas and spending time with family on Christmas Eve. She ordered an abundance of gifts, stacking them high to see the reaction and smiles of her loved ones.
In retirement, Donna and Paul were snowbirds, spending Thanksgiving in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, and their winters in Scottsdale, Ariz. Donna loved the sun, was always golden brown and enjoyed sipping on a cold beer.
Donna’s lipsticked smile, laughter and love will forever be missed.
Donna’s family would like to thank the staffs of WEL-Life at Alta, Methodist Manor Retirement Community and Gentiva Hospice for their attentiveness, compassion and competence in supporting and caring for Donna during a long and difficult time.
Donna is survived by her husband Paul Jesse of Storm Lake; daughter Lynn Kollbaum of Alta; son Brandon (Eva) LaFever of Alta; grandchild Collin LaFever of Alta; brothers: David (Jean) Zimmerman of Emmetsburg; Terry (Kim) Zimmerman of Storm Lake; sister Tammy (Doug) Anderson of Cedar Falls; sister-in-law Diane (Gregory) Nelson of Ames; and many nieces, nephews and extended family.
Donna was preceded in death by her former spouse Jerry LaFever; parents, Donald and Phyllis Zimmerman; stepmother Sharon Pearson; parents-in-law, Glen and Lois Jesse; Wilbur and Violet LaFever.
