Donna Jean Sheil

OREGON-Donna Jean Sheil (nee Losenegger) , age 77, left her earthly life for her heavenly life on Tuesday, Nov. 20, 2012 at home, surrounded by her loving family. She was born at home on the family farm in Mount Horeb on Jan. 15, 1935, to Alvin and Bertha (Stucki) Losenegger. On Jan. 22, 1955, she married Richard Cullen “Dick” Sheil. They were married 52 years. Donna looked back upon her marriage with gratitude, as their marriage was an example of a true partnership. Donna attended Bohn School, a one room schoolhouse, and then graduated from Mount Horeb High School in 1952. Donna’s career began as a state employee in downtown Madison. Soon after, she worked as a secretary at the Oregon School for Girls. In time, she trained to become an officer and was one of Oak Hill Correctional Institution’s first female prison guards. After overseeing Cottage 12 inmates for many years, it was time to retire. Her retirement gave her more time to focus on her hobbies. Those who knew Donna knew of her creativity. There was always a new artistic endeavor. Her love of gardening, antiques, garage sales and thrift stores were sources for her continual projects. These undertakings included antiquing, sewing, refinishing, reupholstering, collecting dishes and dolls. Her interest in dolls moved to a whole new level when Dick built her a “dollhouse” for storing her collection. Donna then created an outdoor display case, where she displayed a doll dressed to celebrate seasonal occasions. Years after its departure, people continued to ask Donna about her doll display which brought her much joy. It was in her career and in her hobbies that Donna would channel her energy. Donna was a tireless worker, and her dedication to that was second only to her love of family and friends. Countless warm meals were served to guests in her home, always at a beautifully decorated table. Extended family, friends and her own immediate family grew from the good food, the love and the wise advice Donna shared. Donna is survived by her children, Kim (Jack) Erb, Richard G. (Jolene) Sheil, Lisa (Jeff) Nyenhuis; five grandchildren, Kasey and Lauren Erb, John Sheil, Andrew and Delaney Nyenhuis; two step grandchildren, Korey (Kristin) Erb, Kris (Ann) Erb; two step great- grandchildren, Max and Runner Erb; two brothers, David (Rose) Losenegger, Richard (Carol) Losenegger; one sister, Cheryl (Lee) Ackley; two brother-in-laws, Arnold Schoville, Phil (Phyllis) Sheil; and one sister-in-law, Janet Sheil; and numerous nieces and nephews on both sides. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard; her sister, Betty Schoville; her parents; her husband’s parents, John and Della Sheil; and her in-laws, Garry and Phyllis Sheil, Jack Sheil, June Ann and Robert Mandt. A Memorial Mass will be held at HOLY MOTHER OF CONSOLATION CATHOLIC CHURCH, 651 N. Main St. Oregon at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 24, 2012. Visitation will be held at the church from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 23, 2012, as well as from 10 a.m. until the time of service on Saturday. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Fitchburg and Oregon Senior Centers. Thank you to the Agrace Hospice care staff for their loving care. It is because of them that Donna was able to both begin and end her life on a family farm. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. When you think of me, do not be sad, for I am loving you as I always have. Gunderson Oregon Funeral & Cremation Care 1150 Park St. (608) 835-3515 In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Fitchburg and Oregon Senior Centers. Visitation will be held at the church from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 23, 2012, as well as from 10 a.m. until the time of service on Saturday. A Memorial Mass will be held at HOLY MOTHER OF CONSOLATION CATHOLIC CHURCH, 651 N. Main St. Oregon at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 24, 2012.