Donna Marie (Ford) Salyars

Donna Salyars

May 2, 1936 - November 22, 2024

Born on May 2, 1936, in Rochester, IA, Donna Marie Salyars peacefully passed away on November 22, 2024, at her residence in Rochester, IA. Donna was a devoted daughter, sister, mother, and grandmother, leaving behind a legacy of love and dedication to her family and community.

Her remarkable work ethic and unwavering commitment to excellence shone throughout her career as a Rock Quarry Manager at Wendling Quarries. Donna's leadership and expertise were truly unparalleled, earning her the respect and admiration of all who crossed her path.

Donna was devoted to her husband Lowell, her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was determined and knew what she wanted, never afraid to speak her mind. She often said, "If you're not 10 minutes early, you're late!"

Donna loved to cook, especially for Thanksgiving, creating feasts with homemade chicken noodles, turkey, gravy, dressing, shrimp, and Spanish rice. She enjoyed traveling with Lowell to various states, camping (as long as there were no snakes!), and tending to her garden, especially her red Poinsettias and Christmas Cactus. She had a special bond with Kevin and Deb's dog, Millie, even having a pillow with Millie's photo.

Above all, Donna cherished her family. She wanted them to continue gathering for holidays and staying close. She was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, whose kind and gentle soul will be greatly missed.

Donna's memory will forever be cherished by her children Sharon Espinosa, Steve (Teresa) and Kevin (Debbie) Salyars; her sister Rhonda Driscoll; her brothers Herb and Doug Ford; and her grandchildren Will Salyars, Katie Sederstrom, Kelsey Salyars, and Jonathan Salyars, Darrick Espinosa and Steve Espinosa, Staci Teel and Duane Salyars; 24 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great-grandchild.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 - 11:00 AM on Wednesday, November 27, 2024 at Fry Funeral Home, Tipton, IA, followed immediately by Donna's Funeral Service  at 11:00 AM, where friends, family, and all who knew Donna are invited to honor her life and pay their respects. Graveside Service will be held at Tipton Masonic Cemetery on November 27, 2024, at 12:00 PM, following her funeral at Fry Funeral Home.  Donna's memory will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew and cherished her. Let us come together to celebrate the life of a remarkable woman who touched so many with her kindness, strength, and unwavering loyalty. May her soul rest in eternal peace.

Donna was preceded in death by, and now rejoins, her beloved husband Lowell Salyars, parents Frank and Maxine Ford, Angie Espinosa, Johnny Espinosa, Eldon Ford, Leo Ford, and Wayne Ford.