Donna Junghans

Donna Marie Byers Junghans died peacefully on February 18 after a long period of gradual, yet ever-she-spirited, decline.  Born on May 9, 1930, in Spring Green, WI, daughter to Leonard M and Ellen C Byers, Donna spent most of her early and late 91 years, 9 months, 9 days in Madison, including two stints, 30 years separated, as a UW student.  Donna cherished and supported causes of nature conservation and animal rights, women’s workplace opportunity and education for underprivileged children.  She loved the days at the family log cabin outside Mt Horeb with its 16 acres of woodland, stream and meadow, and willed her ashes to be scattered there.  To her immediate and close family, Donna was devoted, sharing (with counsel, heartfelt) in their various adventures, misadventures and accomplishments.  To all who knew her, she was a vibrant, vital, “unmistakable” personality – to the end.

Donna is survived by her sons Richard Paul and Brian Victor Junghans, respectively, doctor/cancer researcher and actor/sculptor/roofer, and by her luminous grandson Bryce Paul Junghans (son of Richard), who was a recent light in her life, and by exuberant Joanie (dog of Brian), who rollicked her living room rug.  She is survived by nieces Tonya and Lisa and nephew Leif Hendrickson, from whose father, Duane Hendrickson, Donna also benefitted by his much-appreciated, kindly visits in her waning years.  Her heritage lives on as a legacy of integrity and values instilled through her morals lived, without moralizing, transmitted by her example and carried as lessons in all who survive her.  She will be greatly missed, an enduring presence in memories embraced.

Funeral services will be held at the WESTWOOD CHRISTIAN CHURCH, 5210 Odana Road, Madison on Saturday, March 5, 2022 at 1:00 p.m.   Visitation will be from 12:30 pm until the time of service at church.

Memorial donations may be made in memory to ASPCA or Sierra Club.