30,
1942
23,
2024
Donna Jean Ring Evans (81) of Cottage Grove, WI passed peacefully Saturday, March 23, 2024 at home with her daughter Dana by her side.
She was born on December 30, 1942 in Baraboo WI, the daughter of George and Laura (Newman) Ring. Donna started her career at Ishnala Supper Club in Wisconsin Dells. She moved to Madison in the 1960’s and went on to become one of the first women to be a general manager in WI in hotel management, at Hoffman House and Midway Motor Lodge. During this time, she was married to Daniel Elmer I. They had two children, Dana (Ripp) and Daniel Elmer II, and later divorced. Donna then met Robert W. Evans and Married in 1986. After working in the hotel industry for many years she started her own property management & real estate company, Evans Properties LLC, which she owned and operated. She worked tirelessly growing her business then also started a construction company with her husband Robert. They built many real estate properties together which Donna also managed and operated. Donna was always a dedicated business woman who focused on the growth and success of her businesses and continued to run her company and their properties, at the age of 81, until she fell ill in January.
Donna always provided comfort and solace while asking little in return. She was truly devoted to her family and husband. She cared for him 24/7 over the past 5 years even though she had cancer. She enjoyed her beautiful gardens, bird watching, and going to her cabin. She loved her grandchildren and was very proud of them.
Donna is survived by her daughter Dana (Elmer) Ripp, her husband Robert W. Evans, Kathy Fleming, Suzy Gerber, Mary McMillan, William (Butch) Evans, and her grandchildren.
Donna was deeply loved and will be dearly missed! Blessed Mother, Wife, Grandmother and Friend…you will remain in our hearts forever.
There will be a celebration of life for Donna this summer.
Please share your memories at www.cressfuneralservice.com
Cress Center
6021 University Ave. Madison
(608) 238-8406