Donna Louise Kuykendall, 93, fourth oldest of the 10 siblings, passed away peacefully on February 23, 2016, in her home at Sunridge Retirement Center in Pendleton, Oregon. She was surrounded by family and friends. A memorial service will be held Saturday, March 5, 2016, at 2 p.m. at Peace Lutheran Church.

Donna was born February 26, 1922, on a farm in Chatfield, Minnesota, to Louis and Frieda Gehrke. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. She worked as a nanny for a local dentist throughout her high school years and after graduating she worked as a bookkeeper for an auto dealership in St. Paul, Minnesota.

In 1948 she met the love of her life, James Kuykendall, at a bowling alley, where he offered to teach her how to bowl; he told her, “Looks like you need some help,” and on December 19, 1948, they were married in St. Paul, Minn. These two individuals enjoyed 67 wonderful years together, and were examples to all who knew them of how marriages can work with love and respect towards one another. They lived in Minnesota until 1969 and during the summer months started their journey out West.

Donna was a dedicated Christian and a fierce advocate for those individuals who needed a champion; she was one who shared her faith by being a witness of what she believed. If she called you friend you knew it and if you were one of those lucky kids she adopted you knew you were part of her family. She was very active in her church family, served on boards, attended Bible studies and circles, taught Sunday school, and was active organizing funeral meals with her co-organizer for those individuals who lost loved ones.

Donna was a humble servant and an avid advocate for children with disabilities. She was active in the local and state chapters of ARC where she won numerous awards for her volunteerism. Her love for God was her ministry and shined really bright in this area of her life. She served as a court-appointed advocate and champion for those kids who needed a voice in holding caretakers and family members accountable. Donna stood 4 feet 11 inches but if you knew her, and when she was present in many situations, she stood 10 feet tall, not only in this area but in all areas. She was compassionate and offered wisdom to all; sometimes it stung a little, but is was her kindness that lessened the words and helped those find their way. She was right on with her insight so much of the time.

Donna worked for Frazier’s bookstore for many years as their bookkeeper. She also loved to play bingo, camp with friends and family, and go along on hunting and fishing trips. Most of all her kids were her pride and joy: Charles, Carol and Paul.

Donna is survived by her husband James; her children Charles Kuykendall of Hermiston, Carol (Glenn) Perry of Portland, and Paul (Nancee) Kuykendall of Spokane; five grandchildren: Cory Simon, Slater (Joy) Kuykendall, Shane (Sarah) Kuykendall, Sawyer Kuykendall and Seth Kuykendall; three great-grandchildren: Zaevian Simon, Trinity Simon and Alicianna Clay; her two sisters, Anna Berger and Lois (Harold) Anderson; and brothers-in-law Donald Dalnes and John Stepka, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Memorials may be made to Peace Lutheran Church, The ARC Umatilla County, or any other organizations that support people with disabilities.

Pendleton Pioneer Chapel is in care of the arrangements.