Donna Uphoff, 95, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at her home in Washington, IL with her daughter by her side.

Donna Lucille was born on a farm near Ramona, SD on July 23, 1930, to Lawrence and Hertha (Junker) Smith. She was one of five children; her parents, siblings, husband, and one grandson preceded her in death.

The valedictorian of the Rutland High School class of 1948, Donna was awarded a scholarship to Illinois State University. She chose marriage instead.

On November 6, 1949, Donna married Howard Uphoff in Wenona, IL. Donna and Howard began their life together in Rutland, IL with Donna working at Christoff's in

Streator, IL and Howard working at Caterpillar. Much to the delight of their nieces and nephews, they were one of the first families in Rutland to own a television set. Their Saturday mornings were never the same again.

Donna and Howard's union led to four children: Kevin (Alma) Uphoff of Escondido, CA; Dirk (Helen) Uphoff of Avondale, AZ; Lisa (Sue Wiest) Uphoff of Washington, IL and Penny (Jeff) Wall of Knoxville, TN. In addition, Donna had 14 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren.

For many years Donna's focus was on her children, her home, and her church. She served as a room mother and driver to sporting events at Central Grade School from 1962-1978. At St. Mark's Lutheran Church Donna taught first grade at Sunday School, instructed at Vacation Bible School, planned a Mother-Daughter Banquet or two, and was active in Powell Memorial Circle. She was a dedicated blood donor to the Red Cross.

In 1979, Donna began a new journey of growth as she went back to work. She felt blessed to work in the accounting department at Illinois Central College. Her work at ICC led to a college education for two of her children, the creation of many new friendships, and the development of a stronger voice that comes from pride in your work

and a new level of financial independence.

After retirement, Donna worked on the "Marksmen", the church newsletter, volunteered at The Church Mouse, and continued her participation in WELCA. Donna enjoyed her Red Hats' lunches, park district mystery dinners, visiting with her many friends, bowling, golf, fishing and reading. She wished she played the piano better, but her children will always remember her playing and singing "You are my Sunshine" to them. She sounded perfect.

Funeral Services for Donna will be held on Tuesday, April 21, at 11 am at St. Mark's Lutheran Church in Washington with Pastor Jen Beamsley officiating. Burial will follow in Glendale Cemetery in Washington. Visitation will be on Monday from 5 to 7pm at Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory  in Washington.

Memorials may be made to St. Mark's Lutheran Church.