She was born on February 15, 1939, to the late John and Jeanette (Jensen) O'Toole.
Donna had a deep love for all things arts and crafts. She found joy and purpose in painting, crocheting, sewing, and needlepointing, and her creativity touched many lives. She was also known for her fondness for scratch-off lottery tickets, always enjoying the simple fun they brought.
Kind and giving by nature, Donna shared her talents generously. She donated handmade blankets to ambulance services for children and supported other local nonprofits, quietly helping those in need. An amazing cook and baker, Donna once owned her own bakery, where her skills and passion shone through every creation. She was also an exceptional seamstress, and many local girls trusted her to make their prom dresses—garments crafted with care, love, and remarkable skill.
Above all, Donna loved her children and was devoted to teaching them independence. She proudly taught her sons not only how to cook, but also how to sew—life skills that reflected her belief in self-sufficiency and creativity for all.
Donna is survived by her children, Duane Tessmer; Don (Sandy) Tessmer; and Brent Rogers (fiancé Erika Henry); Stepchildren, Candy King and Dawn Carpenter; her ten grandchildren; and her great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings, Dan (Joy) O'Toole and Judy (Vern) Nelson.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Vernon; her sons, Dennis and Douglas; and her siblings, Patrick O'Toole and Kathy King.
A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at John J. Buettgen Funeral Home, 948 Grand Avenue, Schofield. Visitation will take place from 2:00 p.m. until the time of services at the funeral home.
A Celebration of Donna's Life will be held from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at 5387 4th Avenue, Pittsville, WI 54466, in the Commons Room.
Donna will be remembered for her generosity, creativity, and unwavering love for her family—stitches of kindness and care woven into every life she touched.
