Donna Marie (Schnell) Benson
Donna Marie (Schnell) Benson passed away peacefully in her sleep, in the comfort of her own bed at home, on Monday, May 25th, 2020 when Jesus brought her to Heaven. Donna was born in Yorkton, SK on May 10th, 1946 to Mamie (Mary) and Frederick Schnell. As a teenager she met Garry Benson, the love of her life, and they married when she was 18. Together they lived and worked in Moose Jaw and raised their two children. They were married 40 years until Garry’s passing in 2004.
Donna worked at several jobs throughout her life, the last one being STI/SIAST for over 30 years and she retired from her position as the Campus Registrar in 2001. Her retirement gave her time to spend with her new grandchildren and care for our dad and her mother until their passing. She enjoyed annual visits to see Sherri and her children in Texas, and their visits to see her at home in Moose Jaw, and many vacations with Lorraine’s family. The most recent vacation, and one we will always remember and cherish, was our full family vacation to Maui in Feb 2019 where she got to see the ocean again and enjoy the beautiful sights and smells of the Island.
Mom was always there for all the special moments in our lives such as ball games, school functions, graduations, weddings and holiday gatherings. She was there for the births of her grandchildren and continued to support them in the same ways as she had her own children. Always in the stands at their ball, hockey, and volleyball games; any time there was a chance to see them, she was there and spoiling them as only grandmas can.
Donna loved living in the Park while enjoying tending to her yard and flowers and watching the birds, squirrels and deer around her home. She was very supportive of everyone in her life and this is evident in her home that is filled with Partylite and items purchased from various friend’s businesses. Donna loved crafting and was very creative; she passed that love on to her children and grandchildren. Her home was also filled with needlework, sewing and quilting, dried flower creations, scrapbooks and hand painted projects. Donna was also an avid reader. She was a wonderful and loving Wife, Mother, Mother-in-Law, Grandmother, Sister, Auntie, Neighbor and Friend. She will be remembered and loved by all who knew her.
Donna was a devoted Christian, dedicating her life to Jesus in her 20’s. For many years she attended church, and then continued to have prayer gatherings with friends, travel to conferences, daily reading of her Bible and seemingly endless collection of books.
Donna was met in heaven by her parents, Mamie and Frederick Schnell; husband, Garry; sister, Gloria Buchan and many cherished pets, family and friends – we imagine the celebration is amazing! She will lovingly be remembered and terribly missed by her children, Lorraine (Gordon) Knox and Sherri Miller; grandchildren: Carly, Vanessa, Matthew, Mitchell and Luke; her brother, Bill Schnell (Carol); her special Auntie Joan Schnell; and her dogs, Sadie and Lucy; as well as her many nieces and nephews and extended family and friends.
Due to the current health and travel restrictions, a Memorial Service will be held at a later date. As an expression of sympathy, donations in Donna’s name may be made to the Moose Jaw Humane Society, Box 1658 Station Main, Moose Jaw, SK S6H 7K7 or to a charity of one’s choice. Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. Gary McDowell Funeral Director 306-693-4550.
Our sincere condolences to you Lorraine and Gord, Sherri and your families. How wonderful your dear Mom passed into heaven quietly and peacefully in her sleep. Very loving of Jesus to call her home in such a special way to His prepared place for her. Donna was always kind and graciously helpful in our SIAST workplace.
Lorraine and rest of family Thoughts and prayers for all of you. Remember the good times and She will always be with you.
Thank you Donna for your unrelenting calmness, encouragement and belief in people. She and I were co-workers at the college on the hill for many years; her presence there was a gift to me.
To Lorraine, Gord and family – So very sorry to hear of your loss of Donna. Donna was always a kind and wonderful presence at STI/SIAST. It was a pleasure to work with such a dedicated person, both to the students and the staff. Keep all the great memories of her, just like you’re doing with Garry. They are now together again.
Deepest condolences to Lorraine & Gord, Sherri & family. Linda, Deidre and myself are very saddened by the passing of Donna, but she is with Garry in Heaven. Gone but not forgotten.
Sherri & Lorraine….I have many good memories of your family ever since we lived in the park. Your mom is going to be truly missed. Take heart knowing that she is in heaven. My prayers are with you, your families and the extended family.
Donna was one of the nicest and most pleasant people I worked with at SIAST. So sorry she had
to leave us so soon.
David Halstead It was a shock to learn of Donna’s passing. We were colleagues at the former STI-SIAST and I treasure the time we worked together. To Donna’s family I know your “memory book” of your mother and grandmother is full of most wonderful images of how she impacted all your lives.
Condolences to the Benson family. I remember Donna well when I worked at STI. A lovely lady. Always smiling and pleasant. A welcoming face for newcomers to the school.
Sorry about donna she was a good lady always nice to visit and talk too she will be missed
Sincerest condolences Lorraine and family. I too worked with Donna at SIAST and she was such a kind and friendly person. Just a wonderful human being. Thinking of you all at this time.
Lorraine and Gord and family – Our thoughts are with all of you at this difficult time. Donna was such a wonderful lady. Hugs to you all xox
Dawn Luhning and David Danchilla
Lorraine , Gord and Family,
Our most sincere condolences at this most trying time of the loss of your Mother, grandmother. Cherish the great memories and there are many.
Respectfully,
Lloyd and Sandi Luhning
My condolences to Donna’s family. I knew Donna through working at SIAST and she was always friendly, nice, and great to work with.
Dear Lorraine (Gord) & family as well as Sherri & family,
We are so sorry to hear of your mom’s passing, our deepest condolences go out to you all. I have so many fond childhood memories of us playing at your house in the park. Your mom was always so caring and willing to provide us with crafts and snacks whenever possible. I will always remember her beautiful smile. Cherish the wonderful memories and know that our thoughts and prayers are with you. Take good care, love & hugs.
Dear Lorraine and Sherri and families…I am very sorry to hear about the loss of your Mother. She was a beautiful lady with a kind heart! My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Laurie
Dear Sherri and Lorraine,
Donna (“Bennie”) was such a good friend to my mom, Sherry, and such a gentle soul. Kind, funny, and joyous. She will be missed.