Donna Marion WhittakerAge 74, died peacefully on October 22, 2015 after a long struggle with cancer.  Donna was born December 19, 1940 in Detroit, Michigan.  Donna was the daughter of Marion Leo and Bernice Theresa Smykowski.  Donna was a graduate of Sacred Heart High School in Dearborn, Michigan, and Michigan State University with a Bachelor's Degree from the College of Education.  Donna was known for her sense of humor and wit.  She was a supporter of NOW and the League of Women Voters.  She was a Brownie and Girl Scout leader.  She acted as surrogate mom to many foreign exchange students over the years.  Donna enjoyed reading, jigsaw puzzles, and gardening.  She made sure that each of her three children could cook, clean, and mow the lawn.Donna met the love of her life, Eldon Whittaker, in Detroit, Michigan and married him in 1965 at Sacred Heart Church in Dearborn, Michigan.  Donna taught at Potterville Elementary School near Lansing, Michigan while Eldon earned his MBA.  After Eldon's graduation they moved to Dearborn, Michigan where they had 3 children.  Her family lived in many states over the years including Ohio, Wisconsin, Tennessee, Minnesota, and finally back to Wisconsin.Donna was preceded in death by her brother, John Richard, and her parents Bernice and Marion Smykowski.Donna is survived by her husband of 50 years, Eldon; her children and grandsons: Julie Whittaker, her husband, William Ritchey, and their sons Alexander and Benjamin; Susan Whittaker, her husband, Timothy Grass, and their son, Joseph; William, his wife, Susan Oliver, and their son, David. Her sister Joan Smykowski also survives as well as several nieces and nephews.Visitation Monday, October 26, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the funeral home.  In honor of Donna's memory please consider making a donation in her name to the Salvation Army, have waffles with ice cream for dinner, or order a turtle sundae from your favorite custard place.