February 23, 1930 ~ October 6, 2024
Donna Mae Will, 94, of Whitehall, Mich., passed away on Sunday, Oct. 6, 2024.
Donna was born on Feb. 23, 1930, to Robert and Nora (Flynn) Critchett in Ferry, Mich. She graduated from Whitehall High School in 1947. In 1949, Donna married Richard Will, and together they had seven children.
After having children, she attended Grand Valley State University (GVSU) and received her Bachelor’s degree, and subsequent Master’s degree in Education.
Donna worked as an educator for Whitehall District Schools from 1968–1994. She began her teaching career as an elementary teacher and transitioned later to teaching math at the middle school level. She worked on many projects with the GVSU Math & Science Center, including a summer fellowship at Princeton University to write a middle school math curriculum.
Donna was the happiest when she was spending time with her family and being active in her community. One proud achievement was her role in establishing the current White Lake Community Library and serving as a member of the library board. She was an active volunteer for several local organizations, including White Lake Women’s Club, Hackley Hospital, Muskegon County Democratic Party, Michigan Education Association, P.E.O. Sisterhood and American Heart Association. In her retirement, she taught the Hazards of Tobacco program through the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute.
Donna is survived by her children: Gary (Lori Blair) Will, Wendy (Andrew) Shalifoe, Mark (Mary Kay) Will, David (Karla) Will, James Will, Daniel (Judi Searing) Will and Joni Will. She has 15 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren. Donna was preceded in death by her husband, Richard; her parents, Robert and Nora; brothers, John, Walter and Douglas; sisters, Marjorie and Mildred, and great-grandson, Indiana.
A visitation will be held on Friday, Oct. 25 from 6-8 p.m. at Lebanon Lutheran Church, 1101 S. Mears, Whitehall, Mich. The memorial service will be conducted Saturday, Oct. 26 at 11 a.m. at Lebanon Lutheran Church with Pastor Doug Ogden presiding. A luncheon will immediately follow the service. A family graveside service will be held prior to the memorial service at Oakhurst Cemetery in Whitehall, Mich.
Memorial contributions may be made to Lebanon Lutheran Church, the White Lake Community Library or the White Lake Women’s Club Scholarship Fund.
Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, White Lake Chapel, is in charge of arrangements. www.beaconfh.com
