Donna Josephine (Wolfersberger) Van Asperen

Donna J. Van Asperen, 87, a lifelong Battle Creek resident died at Bronson at Home Good Samaritan Hospice Residence on Wednesday, October 14, 2015.

Donna was born April 7, 1928 in Battle Creek to Russell and Mary Rebecca (Schaeffer) Wolfersberger. She attended Battle Creek Public Schools, received her GED as an adult and attended Kellogg Community College. Donna retired from Federal Home Life Insurance, where she was employed as an actuarial clerk.

Donna Josephine Wolfersberger was united in marriage to John Russell Van Asperen on December 17, 1949 in Battle Creek. Donna was preceded in death by John, her husband of 58 years on August 28, 2007. Surviving are her daughter, Janis Bailey of East Leroy; son, John R. (Rhonda) Van Asperen of Charlotte, MI; six grandchildren, Lindsay (Travis) Faircloth, Ashley (Brian) Beck, K.C. Bailey, Josh (Nicole) Dies, Stephanie Bailey, Randy Van Asperen; three great grandchildren; a sister, Marilyn Fox of Battle Creek; and numerous nieces and nephews and their families. In addition to her husband Donna was also preceded in death by her son, Russell D. Van Asperen; her parents; and three brothers, Russell, Donald and Jerry Wolfersberger.

Donna was a member of the First Congregational Church, where she was a former member of the choir, bell choir, a member of the Mary Daniels Circle; and knitted caps for those in need with the Thursday Sewing Group. She was a member of the former Riverside Country Club, where she played golf frequently for years. Donna was an avid Detroit Tigers fan, cheered for the Lions and was a NASCAR fan. Donna enjoyed reading, especially history; doing crossword and jigsaw puzzles, and flower gardening. Her home often smelled of homemade cookies and she loved spending time with her family.

Friends will be received 5:00-7:00 p.m. Tuesday at the Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, where funeral services will be held 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, October 21, 2015, with Rev. Thomas J. Ott, senior minister of the First Congregational Church officiating. Committal and interment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to First Congregational Church, 145 Capital Avenue N.E., Battle Creek, MI 49017; or Bronson at Home Good Samaritan Hospice Care, 165 N. Washington Ave., Battle Creek, MI 49037. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.