Donna Newmeyer

GARNER - Donna Francis Newmeyer, affectionately known to many as "Gran," passed away peacefully on July 25, 2024, in Garner, North Carolina, at the age of 89. Born on April 2, 1935, in Detroit, Michigan, Donna lived a life full of love, laughter, and unwavering dedication to her family, community, and heritage.

Donna was the beloved daughter of the late Jessie Ford and Maurice Ford. She was also preceded in death by her sisters, Lynn Malpeli and Andrea Kennedy. Survived by her devoted brother, Roger Ford, Donna leaves behind a legacy through her cherished sons, Michael Newmeyer, Robert Newmeyer, and Peter Newmeyer, and her adoring grandchildren: Robin Newmeyer, Emmarose Newmeyer, Madison Newmeyer, Martha Newmeyer, Savannah Newmeyer, and Mason Newmeyer. Her loyal canine companion, Teddy, will also greatly miss her presence.

Growing up and studying in Metro Detroit, she married Forrest Ralph Newmeyer in 1963 with whom she raised their 3 boys together for 10 years. They started their life together living in Student housing in Ypsilanti MI, while Ralph completed his studies at EMU. They then moved to Inkster MI for a few years before settling in Sterling Heights. After the difficult period of their separation and divorce, Donna decided to start a new life with her boys out west in Colorado where she joined her sister "Andy" and her family. The 2 sisters became inseparable and supported each other while managing their perspective families and businesses. They could often be seen together giggling and laughing while enjoying the more than occasional Margarita.

A true matriarch, Donna was a single mother who raised three boys with strength and love. Her careers were as varied and vibrant as her personality, encompassing roles as a lab technician and part owner of a medical laboratory; Special education teacher/assistant (Bruce Collins Elementary); A business owner of 2 separate/consecutive candy stores; a candy wholesaler, an office furniture sales associate; administrator/sales/secretary at a Bronzer foundry in Loveland; and finally ending a long professional life with the Hach Company. She finally settled in Garner NC where she could be close to her "Favorite" son Rob and his family. Donna was not only a successful independent businesswoman but also a caring and generous mother and grandmother, always putting family first.

Her interests were as diverse as her career. Donna was an avid gardener, a passionate traveler, and a lover of dogs. She found joy in volunteering within her community and was an active participant at the Garner Senior Center. Her generous and comical spirit made her a beloved neighbor and friend to all who knew her.

Donna was deeply proud of her Native American heritage, being a fourth-generation member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians. Her faith was important to her, raised as a devout Catholic with a solid parochial school education. She raised her 3 sons in the religion which she practiced for the majority of her life. She later became a dedicated member of Unity Church.

The family invites friends and loved ones to join in a celebration of Donna's life at the Garner Senior Center 205 E Garner Rd, Garner, NC 27529. The celebration will begin at 1:00pm on Saturday December 28th. There will be light fare and refreshments until 2:30 PM.

In addition, as per her wishes, there will be another ceremony in the spring of 2025 where she will have her ashes interred at the Ford Family Plot in Holy Sepulcher Catholic Cemetery Detroit Michigan.