Donna Mae Lappe

Donna Mae Lappe was born on August 2, 1937, to Lawrence and Bertha (Berndt) Frazier in Denison, Iowa. She was baptized and later confirmed into the Catholic faith. Donna attended country school and graduated from St. Ann Catholic High School in Vail, Iowa.

On August 3, 1955, Donna married the love of her life, Clarence Lappe, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Denison. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, family, and hard work. They moved to a farm near Vail where they started their family and lived for many years. In 1971, they relocated to a farm near Dow City which became their cherished home. Donna dedicated herself to raising their children and ensuring her family was always cared for, with her home often filled with the comforting aroma of her delicious meals.

A devout Catholic, Donna was an active member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dow City, where she taught CCD classes and participated in the Altar Guild. When St. Mary’s closed, she became a member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Denison, continuing her commitment to her faith and community.

Donna found joy in traveling with Clarence, especially during his work trips, with Milwaukee, Wisconsin holding a special place in her heart. She also loved exploring thrift stores in search of hidden treasures. Above all, Donna treasured her time with her family, cherishing the moments spent together and the memories they created.

Donna passed away on Sunday, January 12, 2025, at the Crawford County Memorial Hospital in Denison at the age of 87 years, five months and ten days. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Eddie; and nephew, Mark Frazier. 

Donna is survived by her husband, Clarence Lappe of Dow City; children: Deb Wells of Defiance, Kathy (Joe) Burns of Vina, Alabama, Christine (Tony) Ernsperger of Dow City and Pat (Mindy) Lappe of Manning; nine grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews; and other relatives and friends.

Visitation with Family Greeting Friends will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at the Huebner Funeral Home in Denison. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, January 17, 2025, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church. Interment will follow her mass at the St. Ann Cemetery near Vail. Memorials may be directed to the family.