Donna Kitsch

Surrounded by love and music, our dear mother and grandmother, Donna Idell Kitsch, passed away peacefully on May 10, 2025 at Lakeside Manor in Saltcoats, Saskatchewan.

Donna was predeceased by her husband Ewald, daughter Jan Lahti, parents John and Edna (Aim) Craigie and brothers Verne (Harvena) and Clemence, as well as Ewald’s parents Jacob and Paulina and his siblings Martha (Philip) Kohnen, Regina (John) Jeske, Gertrude (William) Collins, Emil (Elizabeth), Jacob “Teddy” (Gladys), Frieda (Willy) DeBackere, Ida (Ronnie) Riffel and Gladys (Lawrence) Just. She leaves to celebrate her life her daughters Rhonda (Dale) Lyle and Moira (Andrew) Warke, son-in-law Todd (Brenda) Lahti, grandchildren Ben Lyle, Travis Lyle (Elise Ouellette), Jordyn Warke (Micah Hussell), Caeleigh Warke (Luke Wiebe), Dana Lahti (Sean Lacey) and Claire Lahti, sister-in-law Eileen Craigie, godson Mark Just and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Donna was born near Bredenbury, Saskatchewan on May 25, 1931. She attended school there and following her high school graduation attended teachers college. Donna developed an interest in elementary education and taught in Cut Arm, Regina, Laird, Biggar and Stockholm, Saskatchewan.

Donna and Ewald were married in 1956 and lived in Stockholm and Fenwood before moving to Saltcoats. When they started their family, Donna stayed home to raise their three girls. She eventually worked alongside Ewald as an office assistant for the Rural Municipality of Saltcoats for many years. As Ewald became more involved in farming, Donna’s support was invaluable as administrator of the farm finances.

Donna developed a love of music at an early age which continued to inspire her throughout her lifetime. It was only natural that she shared her musical talent and enthusiasm with all of her children and grandchildren. Donna and Ewald provided numerous opportunities for their daughters’ involvement in music and wholeheartedly supported these pursuits. Several churches and communities benefited from Donna’s skills as a vocalist, pianist and choir director for many years. Wherever she lived, Donna found an opportunity to be involved in choirs. She was greatly inspired by the music and fellowship each of those groups provided and was honoured to lead the choir at Zion Lutheran Church for 28 years.

Donna faithfully maintained connections over several decades with treasured friends near and far. She quietly served her community by supporting elderly neighbours and volunteering with Lakeside Manor Care Home, Saltcoats United Church choir and Saltcoats Figure Skating Club. Her faith in God sustained her throughout all of life’s joys and challenges, and she and Ewald greatly valued their faith community at Zion Lutheran Church.

Donna’s greatest joy was her family and she expressed her love for them in countless ways, particularly with her legendary cooking and baking. She was the wind beneath the wings of her family, supporting and facilitating their every endeavour. Her legacy of love continues to inspire them all.

The family expresses sincere appreciation to the staff of Lakeside Manor Care Home for the skill, love and compassion with which they cared for Donna over the last three years. Much gratitude is extended to Donna’s music therapist, Jackie Washenfelder, whose expertise and creativity enabled Donna to raise her voice in song when communication was difficult. Many thanks to Saltcoats neighbours and friends who provided support for Donna and her family whenever needed. The family gratefully acknowledges the guidance and support of Pastor Kai Buck and the staff of Christie’s Funeral Home.

Should friends so desire, donations in memory of Donna  may be made to Saltcoats Lakeside Manor Care Home, Parkinson Canada, or Zion Lutheran Church Memorial Fund in Yorkton, SK.

"Where words fail, music speaks."

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