Donna L. Buchholz, age 89, a Manitowoc resident, passed away Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at Aurora Medical Center, Two Rivers.

She was born August 30, 1936 in Marinette, WI, daughter of the late Alfred ‘Swanny’ and Astrid ‘Auty’ (Ostling) Swanson.

Donna grew up in Marinette and later spent time in Chicago working for the Salvation Army and finished her schooling, lived in a few areas in the states before moving overseas, and eventually settled in Anchorage, Alaska. She loved the scenery and enjoyed many outdoor activities, especially fishing. With her father and uncles working as commercial fisherman on the Great Lakes, it became easy to enjoy working for many years for Alaska Fish and Game. When she retired, she moved to Mesa, Arizona, to be with her parents in their final years. Along the way, she met many dear friends and was able to be reconnected with family. In time, she desired to return to Wisconsin to be closer to loved ones, settling in Manitowoc.

Donna was a faith-filled woman who loved Jesus and reflected that love through her kindness, encouragement, and caring spirit. She always wore a sweet smile and made others feel special through thoughtful words, especially on Facebook, where she loved cheering people on and noticing the good in their lives. She loved sharing memories, whether it was about her family and friends, her adventures, what she loved, or even sweet or funny songs from her childhood; it was met with exuberance and laughter.

Her love of pretty things was expressed in her stylish outfits, cute jewelry, flowers, and her home. She loved to host meals, bringing food she carefully curated or a simple snack or treat she thoughtfully purchased in hopes she could love on you when you walked through her door. She had a deep love for animals, especially her dog Lily. She and Lily would often enjoy spending quiet time listening to Christian contemporary music or watching church services from her favorite pastors.

Donna treasured the many friendships she built throughout her life, especially those from her years in Alaska and Arizona. She faithfully stayed connected with those she loved through phone calls, messages, prayers, and encouragement, creating lasting relationships. Her weekly conversations with her son, Henry, were treasured moments. As an only child, Donna held her extended family especially close to her heart, and her aunts, uncles, and cousins became a cherished part of her life. To many extended family members and friends, she was affectionately known as “Auntie Donna” and to some as “Arizona Mom,” especially to Kim and Stacy; titles that reflected the special role she played in the lives of so many. Donna held a special place in her heart for many dear friends and family both near and far.

Donna is survived by her son Henry Buchholz, Alaska; and other beloved family including her cousins; Faith (late David) Hagen, Lake City, MN, Karin (late Ernie) Loukinen, Davenport, IA, Sherrill (David) Krause, Ann Arbor, MI, Bryan (Lori) Ostling, Lubbock, TX, Phyllis (late John) Klovstad, Canandaigua, NY, Elaine Janz (late Dennis Ostling), Grand Ledge, MI, Jolene (late Henry) Johnson, Elk River, MN, Kristine (late John) Westphal, Gladstone, MI, Jeanette (Brad) Hoiska, Marquette, MI.

Donna also lovingly considered many of their children to be her “nieces, nephews and grandchildren,” as well as many close friends. With special recognition to her dear “niece”, Natalie (Bryan) Mulheron and their children, Bryce, Malia and Brock of Manitowoc.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents, Alfred and Astrid Swanson, and son, Michael. Her beloved cousin, Dorothy (Walter) Johnson. Her dear friend, Bernice Stout.

Funeral services will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 30, 2026 at Hope Community Church, 4408 County Road B, Manitowoc. Officiating at the service will be the Rev. Jed Manders. Following the service, a dinner for family and friends will be held at church.

The family will greet relatives and friends from 2:30 p.m. until 3:45 p.m. on Saturday, May 30, 2026 at Hope Community Church, Manitowoc.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Donna’s name to Hope Community Church, Manitowoc, WI, or One Life Church, Mesa, AZ.

The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, Manitowoc, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family by visiting www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com.

Donna’s family wishes to extend a special thank you and appreciation to the staff, lovely nurses and CNA’s (especially Dottie) of Felician Village (St Mary’s and the Villa), Aurora Medical Center and Hospice for their compassionate care of Donna.