Donna Peppel

Donna Mae Peppel

December 28, 1936 – February 10, 2025

Donna Mae Peppel, 88, of Crosby, formerly of East Gull Lake, MN, passed away peacefully on February 10, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and dedication. Born in St. Paul, MN, on December 28, 1936 to James M. and Viola (Dropps) Olds. Donna spent her early years in Outing, MN, where her father operated the Standard Station, and her mother worked as a mail carrier. She graduated as Valedictorian from Remer High School in 1954, an early testament to her intelligence and determination.

Pursuing her passion for helping others, Donna earned her RN degree in 1957 from the Swedish Hospital School of Nursing in Minneapolis, MN. On August 18, 1958, she married the love of her life, Glen Orin Peppel of Remer. Together, they embarked on a journey of love, career, and adventure that would span decades.

Donna’s dedication to nursing, coupled with Glen’s teaching career, led them to reside in various communities including Grand Rapids, Cass Lake, Two Harbors, Brandon/Alexandria, MN, and Battle Creek, MI. In 1967, they settled in Brainerd, MN, where Donna began her career at the Brainerd State School and Hospital, Minnesota Learning Center and eventually Brainerd Regional Human Services Center. Her tireless work ethic and compassionate nature earned her the role of Director of Nursing at Woodhaven Senior Community, a position she served with grace and dedication.

A woman of deep faith, Donna and her husband Glen were instrumental in founding Lord of Life Lutheran Church in Baxter, MN, becoming charter members in 1991. Their faith guided them throughout their lives and provided a foundation for the love they shared with their family and community. Volunteering and other activities including Planned Parenthood, First Responders, Cass County election judge, and Madden’s West Golf Course in the pro shop/clubhouse. She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary.

In retirement, Donna and Glen embraced adventure, traveling across the country in their RV and spending cherished winters in Arizona. Donna enjoyed square dancing, sewing, quilting, reading, cross-country skiing, shopping, golfing, bridge, journaling, parties, celebrations, and “Camp Bushy”. They moved to Heartwood in Crosby, MN in 2015.

Donna treasured her role as a devoted wife, mother and grandmother, finding great happiness in the moments spent with family and friends; from making her "World's Greatest" chocolate chip peanut butter rice crispy bars to recounting incredible stories of her life with Glen. Her unwavering love and kindness touched the lives of all who knew her and will forever remain in their hearts.

Donna was a steadfast supporter of her grandsons’ passions, attending countless football, baseball, basketball, hockey games, track meets, and a couple of snowmobile races. She cheered them on with enthusiasm and pride, always their biggest fan. Her presence at these events was a testament to her love and commitment to family, creating cherished memories that will live on in their hearts forever.

Donna was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Glen, who passed away on June 20, 2024. She is survived by her son Keith (Lori) and grandson Evan of Roseau; daughter Nancy (Skip) Peterson of Brainerd, MN, and grandsons PJ (Paige) of Audubon, MN, Jake (Dani) of Fargo, ND, and Erik of Hawley, MN; special aunt Doris (Dropps) Hansen; and brothers-in-law Bill and Dale Peppel.

Donna will be laid to rest beside her beloved Glen at the Minnesota Veterans Cemetery at Camp Ripley in Little Falls, MN. Her legacy of love, faith, and unwavering dedication to family and service will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

A Funeral Service will be held on Monday February 17, 2025 at 11:00AM at Lord of Life Lutheran Church in Baxter with Pastor Erika Nilsen officiating. Family and friends are invited to gather one hour prior to the service at the church. Lunch will be served following the service. 

In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choice in memory of Donna.