Donna Jean (Johnson) Hanna
On May 23, 2014, Donna passed away in Helena from injuries sustained in a one-vehicle accident. She was 79 years old. Donna was born in Anaconda on October 31, 1934 to Leslie Odell and Winnie Ann Johnson.
Donna was a mother, sister, teacher and friend. Her favorite days were spent with family and friends. Donna was very proud of her children and enjoyed family gatherings and introducing them to all her friends. She enjoyed road trips and cruises with her “big sister” Beth and “baby brother” Rick.
Donna’s love of music was extensive — from listening to George Jones, enjoying a dance to playing the piano.
Donna received a teaching certificate from Western Montana College and a BA from Carroll College.
Donna began her 30-year teaching career in Ennis where she met Harold “Hal” McDowell whom she married and had four children.
After living and teaching in several Montana towns, Donna moved to Helena, married Kenneth D. Hanna and had one child. In Helena, she taught at Warren elementary school–retiring in 2000. She was an active member of the National Education Association and enjoyed monthly luncheons with her retired teachers group.
Donna’s last love was Eugene “Freckles” Richards. Together they enjoyed camping, dancing and a good game of pinochle with friends. Donna’s love for animals was shown by her rescued dogs or as she would say “they rescued her”.
Donna is survived by siblings Beth Berg and Rick Johnson; children Ginger Knaff (Bryan), Jeff McDowell (Kim), Tim McDowell (Janell), Randy McDowell (Annette), Melissa Tucker (Rick); grandchildren Jon Dewit, Jake Dewit, Elissa Knaff, Laci McDowell, Cody McDowell, Taylor McDowell, Marcus McDowell, Chance McDowell, Brandon McDowell, Drew McDowell, Lauryn McDowell, Tanner Tucker, Chase Tucker; and great-grandchildren Mikayli, Marias and McKenna.
A Celebration of her life will be held Friday, May 30, 2014, 1:00 p.m. at the Eagles Lodge located at 801 North Fee Street, Helena. Donations can be made in her name to the Lewis and Clark County Humane Society. Please visit below to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Donna.
Service Schedule
Celebration of Her Life
1:00 p.m.
Friday May 30, 2014
Eagles Lodge
801 N. Fee St
Helena, Montana 59601
Service Schedule
Celebration of Her Life
1:00 p.m.
Friday May 30, 2014
Eagles Lodge
801 N. Fee St
Helena, Montana 59601
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Sharon Nelson says
I am so sorry for your loss. You are in my prayers. Donna was a dear friend of mine.
Shirley Johnson says
My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you on your loss. Donna became an important person in my life as she shared her life with my Uncle Freckles and welcomed me into her home many times. I so enjoyed being with her, talking with her, laughing with her and even though we lived miles apart and didn’t see each other often I will miss her! She dearly loved her family, was so very proud of all of you and I hope that brings you comfort at this sad time!
Evy Burris Sass says
“Donna & Freckles Forever” What A “Forever Couple”. Dear Family , So Sorry for your loss of your special loved ones. Be at Peace as Donna & Freckles are. They Both Will Truly Be Missed. God Bless. Friend Evy
Kelle McMahon says
Tim, so very sorry for the loss of your mom. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Joe and Kelle McMahon
Diane Pedersen says
To the Hanna family,
I was sorry to learn that Donna passed away. I got to know Donna and Freckles and found them both to be wonderful people. May Donna be at peace and may her family remember the good times. With deepest sympathy,
Diane Pedersen, Helena
Lucille Paddock Balfour says
I was so sorry to read about Donna’s death. Please accept my sympathy. It’s been many years since I have seen her and regret that. I have fond memories of the Johnson family when we all lived at Mill Creek so many years ago.
Julie Massaro says
Ginger,
I am sorry to read about the passing of your Mom. I remember Donna and Freckles from being at the Pennington’s house several times. I actually had no idea she was your Mom! Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Please let us know if we can do anything for you.
Sincerely,
Rick and Julie Massaro
Beverly Daniels Villa says
I am so sorry for your loss. Donna and i went to school from Beaverdam in Opportunity, thru high school. We attended the Grace Baptist church..so many years age. I met Freckles at one of our class reunions. They were a match ! My heart aches for family left behind. You will be in my prayers. So quickly gone, but never forgotten. God bless
Tom Reilly says
I am very sorry for what has happened. Even though I’ve not seen here in several years, Donna was always very friendly when I would see her around Helena. The years that had passed and other transitions in our lives did not matter. Also in those early years at my grandparents house in Clancy so long ago. Take care.
tom
Estelle Hayes says
My sincere condolences for the loss of your Mother. Donna was a good person. After she and my imperfect but “I loved him” uncle divored, I ran into her and Freckles one evening when I was in Helana. She was friendly and invited me to visit. My regrets that I did not do that but we all know how time goes when we visit Helena for one week a year. I have always admired her, felt welcomed in her home and am sad for the empty space in the world created by her passing.