Donna Lahre Schleuning of Thomson, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 13, 2025, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, April 25, at the Law Jones Funeral Home in Thomson. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will be in Savanna Township Cemetery. Luncheon will follow at the Legion Hall in Thomson.
Donna was born on June 11, 1949, to Earl "Buck" and Celia Frances Lahre and was raised in the small, tight-knit community of Thomson. A graduate of Thomson Schools, she remained deeply rooted in her hometown throughout her life. On February 17, 1968, Donna married Ronald Schleuning Sr., the love of her life. Together, they shared 47 years of marriage, raising a family and building a life filled with love and devotion until Ron’s passing in 2013.
A dedicated homemaker, Donna lovingly tended to her home and family while Ronny worked on the railroad. She took great pride in maintaining a tidy home, always welcoming guests with warmth—after a polite request to remove their shoes. Donna found joy in the simple pleasures of life, especially the outdoors. She was happiest tending to her yard while Ronny tended to the flower beds. When she wasn’t at home, Donna could often be found at Dusty’s in Thomson, enjoying meals and conversation with family and friends. A lover of small dogs, she welcomed many canine companions into her heart over the years.
Donna’s life was one of quiet strength, simplicity, and love—values she passed on to her children and grandchildren. She will be dearly missed by her son, Ronald Schleuning Jr. of Savanna, IL; her daughter, Teresa Schleuning of Arizona; her grandchildren, Desiree, Shelby, and Devon; and her three great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings, Carol Schleuning of Pearl City and Bobby Jo (Sandy) Lahre of Savanna; siblings-in-law, Stan (Donna) Schleuning, Bill Schleuning, and Jeanie Schleuning; her good friends at Dusty's; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Donna was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ronald Sr.; her infant son, Timmy Jo; her parents, Buck and Celia Lahre; and several brothers-in-law.