Donna Marie Bush

MADISON, Wis. - Donna Marie Bush, age 67, of Madison, passed away on Monday, June 7, 2021, at Agrace HospiceCare. She was born on Feb. 21, 1954, in Batavia, Ill., the daughter of Angelo and Doris (Hicks) Perna. Donna graduated from Western Illinois University with a bachelor’s degree in Parks and Recreation. She met her future husband, Earl Bush Jr., while attending Western. He was in the band, she was a member of the color guard - it was a match made in heaven. Donna and Earl were united in marriage on Nov. 27, 1976, in Batavia. Donna was a devoted mother to Cindy and Nathan. While her children were in school Donna was a member of Booster Club and PTA, even serving as president. She spent many hours volunteering and organizing events and fundraisers. She was always her children’s biggest supporter, attending every game, concert, competition, match, and recital. With both of her children graduating from UW-Madison it’s no surprise Donna was an avid Badgers football fan; she and Earl were proud season ticket holders. Donna had a passion for health, wellness, and exercise. She loved being active and outdoors - running and walking. Donna also enjoyed spending time at the family cabin with her grandchildren or cousins. Her famous homemade chocolate chip cookies were everyone’s favorite. Her family was her heart and she cherished the time she spent with her granddaughters, even moving to Madison to be closer to them. Donna is survived by her husband of 44 years, Earl; daughter, Cindy (Patrick Daley) Bush; two grandchildren, Lana Daley and Evelyn Daley; mother, Doris; two brothers, David Perna and Dan (Sue) Perna; sister, Debbie (Mickey) Ernzen; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. She was preceded in death by her father, Angelo; son, Nathan Bush; parents-in-law, Earl Sr. and Marian Bush; and sister-in-law, Renee Perna. A celebration of life for Donna will be held at MCGAW PARK (Main pavilion near baseball fields), 5236 Lacy Road, Fitchburg, from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m. on Tuesday, June 15, 2021. A short program will begin at 4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be gifted in Donna's name to UW Carbone Cancer Center. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive (608) 221-5420