Donna J. Evleth, lovingly known as “Gram,” passed away peacefully on May 5, 2026, at the age of 89, surrounded by the unwavering love of her family. Born in St. Paul, Minnesota, on June 12, 1936, Donna embraced life with boundless energy and an endless devotion to those she loved most. She filled every room with warmth, every gathering with joy, and every heart with the comforting feeling of home. With grace, humor, and a heart overflowing with treasured memories, Donna packed her bags, said her loving goodbyes, and headed west one final time to reunite with her devoted husband, Warren R. “Dick” Evleth, and their fellow ski bums on the snow-covered slopes of Colorado.

Donna lived a life rooted in generosity, laughter, and the joy of bringing family together. She was a devoted wife, adored mother and grandmother, beloved sister and friend, passionate skier, talented floral designer, and proud patriot. Her love shone through in the way she gave— born with an extraordinary strength for making others feel special, often through thoughtful gestures wrapped in her signature red gift boxes adorned with beautiful bows, awaiting to brighten someone’s day. Giving brought Donna immense happiness, and she shared that happiness freely and abundantly throughout her life.

Even after the passing of her beloved husband on August 4, 2023, Donna carried forward his cherished mantra: “You just gotta have fun.” With resilience, wit, and an enduring sense of humor, she embraced life with optimism and continued to bring laughter and warmth to everyone around her. Her love, generosity, and spirited nature will remain woven into the lives of all who knew and adored her. 

Donna met Dick while skiing in Aspen, Colorado— a love story she delighted in retelling to her grandchildren over the years. Just a year and a half after meeting, they became husband and wife and what began on the slopes, quickly turned into a lifelong adventure. Together, they built a beautiful life centered on faith, family, friendship, and shared adventure, creating 62 years of treasured memories between their homes at the Jersey Shore on LBI and in the mountains of Winter Park, Colorado.

Their journey took them from California to Detroit and Texas, before they settled in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, where Donna took tremendous pride in raising her children and dedicating herself to her family. Later, as her children prepared for college, she embarked on a successful career with AT&T.  She was deeply proud of her many accomplishments serving 12 years as a Finance Manager.

A lover of beauty in all its forms, Donna was an active member of the Long Beach Island Garden Club, where she flourished creatively through floral design. She found great joy in arranging flowers, teaching others, and appreciating the simple elegance of nature. Her artistic touch and thoughtful spirit were evident in every arrangement she created.

Donna is predeceased by her husband Warren R. Evleth, parents Morton and Bernice Jameson, sister Mary Ann Krinkie, and brother-in-law Willard Krinkie.

She is survived by her loving son, Randel, his wife Nicola, and their children, Erika and Jack; by her devoted daughter, Lisa, her husband Robert Jr., and their children, Kendall and Luke.

Also survived by her nephews Bruce (Jodi) Krinkie and David (Diane) Krinkie; niece Susan Krinkie (Scott) Wesch and her two wonderful and devoted caregivers Debbie and ZiZi.

Her love and legacy will continue to live on through her family and all those fortunate enough to have known her.

A memorial service celebrating Donna’s life will be held on Saturday, June 6, at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Innocents Episcopal Church, Beach Haven, NJ. Following the service, family and friends are invited to gather for a reception at Station 117.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation, supporting the families of fallen heroes in honor of Donna’s generous and compassionate spirit.