Obituary of Donna Jean Parker

Donna Jean Parker, 81, passed away Friday morning, December 11, 2015, after a brief illness with cancer. She was born on February 12, 1934, in Menlo, Iowa, and was the daughter of Ralph and Lillian Mae (Bisom) Beghtel. On September 24, 1960, Donna was united in marriage with Dorman Edward Parker, at the First United Methodist Church in Newton. Donna devoted her life to her family, friends and the care of the Parker homestead and heritage family farm. She retired from the Maytag Company in 1989 after 37 years of service. Donna was a member of the First United Methodist Church and Elks Ladies. She enjoyed her flowers, her dogs and cats, and was a devout Iowa State University fan. Those left to honor Donna’s memory include her sister-in-law Joyce Still; her nieces: Marcia Bledsoe, Cindy Still, Jody McCorvie and Debra Mann; her cousins; and many good friends and neighbors. Donna was preceded in death by her husband Dorman on June 19, 1997 and her parents. A Time of Remembrances for Donna will be held 2:00 p.m., Saturday, January 2, 2016, at the First United Methodist Church in Newton, conducted by Pastor Gary Marzolf. A time of fellowship and tea with the family will follow the memorial services. Pence ~ Reese Funeral Home in Newton has been entrusted with the arrangements, and the burial will be in Newton Union Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be left in Donna’s name with the Salvation Army, Jasper Co. Animal Rescue League or a charity of your choosing.