Donna M. Gustafson, age 75, of Sheboygan, passed away on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at Aurora Medical Center, Sheboygan, following a short battle with cancer. She was born on June 17, 1950, in Sheboygan, daughter of the late Leslie and Betty (Kraus) Hallwachs. Donna was a graduate of Sheboygan North High School, Class of 1968.
In 1968 Donna started working at the Humane Society, where she made some lifelong friends. She later worked at Bemis for 32 years until her retirement in June 2015. She was a devoted member of St. Paul Lutheran Church. Donna was a woman with an exceptionally big heart, known for her deep love for family, friends, and anyone in need of kindness. She was immensely proud of her grandchildren and rarely missed an opportunity to cheer them on, eagerly sharing photos of soccer games, tennis matches, and swim meets. Making memories, especially filled with laughter, was always important to her. She created them through game nights, lively rounds of Left, Right, Center, and cleverly crafted Saran wrap balls that delighted and challenged her grandchildren at Christmas time.
Donna had a thoughtful spirit and a remarkable memory for the small details that mattered most to others. She often surprised people with meaningful gifts simply because she remembered something they once mentioned. Even during her own cancer journey, Donna found ways to uplift others, gifting small heart tokens to fellow chemo patients to offer strength, courage, and the same comfort her own token gave her.
She loved music and could often be found driving with the stereo blaring, enjoying long drives throughout Wisconsin. An avid animal lover, throughout her life, Donna shared her life with dogs, cats, birds, and guinea pigs. She cherished girls’ nights, time with friends and family, and special moments she shared with Roger, relationships she valued deeply and nurtured throughout her life.
Above all else, Donna loved her family fiercely and would do anything for them. Her kindness, joy for life, and generous heart will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
Donna is survived by her daughter, Jennifer (Marcus) Krugel; three grandchildren, Paige, Noel and Luke Krugel; two brothers Ken (Cheryl) Hallwachs and Steve Hallwachs; special friend Roger Rodewald; many nieces and nephews; grand dogs, Bentley and Milo and other relatives and friends.
She is preceded in death by her parents Leslie and Betty Hallwachs; and nieces, Kayla and Alissa Hallwachs.
A funeral service for Donna will take place at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 1810 N. 13th St. in Sheboygan, on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at 4:00 p.m., with Rev. Alan Kretschmar officiating. Relatives and friends may visit with the family from 2:00 p.m. until the time of service at the church.
Zimmer Westview is assisting the family. Online condolences and memories may be shared by visiting our website at www.zimmerfuneralhome.com.
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