Donna Arlene Gearig, 86, of Alvordton, died early Tuesday morning, February 21, 2017, at Evergreen Manor in Montpelier, where she has resided since 2013. She was born January 9, 1931, to the late Joseph Alfred and Mary Evelyn (Lemming) Eaton. Donna married Elgin Alvin Gearig on April 25, 1952, in Fulton County, and he preceded her in death on October 22, 2007.
Donna grew up in rural Fulton County, and attended the former grade school in Winameg, before taking nursing classes in Toledo. She served her family as a loving homemaker, and she and Elgin taught Sunday school for numerous years in Delta, OH. She loved all animals, and was especially fond of cats. Her greatest joy came from the bond she shared with her husband of 55 years, followed by her beloved grandchildren. Donna was a member of the Alvordton United Brethren Church.
Surviving Donna are a son, Timothy (Helen) Gearig of Bryan, OH; two daughters, Rose Watkins of Montpelier, and Loretta Burkhart of Montpelier; eight grandchildren and three step-grandchildren; twelve great grandchildren and ten step-great grandchildren; and longtime family friends, Brian (Dawn) Kuszmaul of Alvordton.
In addition to her parents and husband Elgin, she was predeceased by all of her siblings, Charles, Robert, Alan, Tyke, Edith, Jerry, and Marion; and a son-in-law, Dave Burkhart.
A funeral service for Donna will be held Thursday, February 23, 2017, at 11:00 a.m. at the Eagle Funeral Home in Fayette with Pastor Dan VanArsdalen officiating. Burial will follow in Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette. The family will receive friends for a visitation on Thursday for one hour preceding the service, beginning at 10:00 a.m.
Those planning an expression of sympathy may consider memorial donations in honor of Donna to a charity of their choice. Friends can share memories and words of comfort to the family online at www.eaglefuneralhomes.com