Donna White

Donna found great joy in the world around her, cherishing the simple moments like sharing a meal with others, talking on the telephone or taking trips with her children. With a heart that never ceased to care for others and a positive, upbeat attitude, Donna White served as an inspiration to many people throughout her life. A beloved mother, daughter, sister and friend, Donna will be dearly missed.

The 1960's, when Donna's story begins, were an exciting decade in the history of the United States. With the Korean War a thing of the past, peace was nevertheless a precious concept as Cold War tensions continued to rise. In the year 1961, America looked South towards Cuba with fear as diplomatic relations ceased and war seemed imminent. But in St. Johns, Michigan, Joseph and Genevieve (Simon) Pung were happily distracted from the troubles and tensions around them as they instead prepared their already busy house for the birth of another baby. One cold winter day, on December 5, 1961, they welcomed a darling new daughter named Donna into their hearts.

As the fourth of seven children in her family, Donna experienced a busy and happy childhood on their family farm. She enjoyed playing with her siblings, who would often play church at home on Sundays. She was a pleasant, amiable child who had many friends. She also held a soft spot in her heart for the family cats. As a child, Donna attended Most Holy Trinity Schools through the eighth grade. Donna was a good student, though she kept an active social life with her friends as well. Always very particular with her things, Donna was an organized child. When she grew older, she attended Fowler High School, from which she proudly graduated.

After graduation, Donna worked as a waitress in area restaurants. She was proud to buy her own car with the tips she had earned. Soon, she was introduced to a young man named Dave by a mutual friend. The two were married, and settled together in Lansing. There, Donna gave birth to her two children, Heather and Tyler. Donna and Dave then decided to move, and built a home in Laingsburg. Unfortunately, Donna and Dave later discovered that their marriage was no longer working, and decided to divorce. Although they were no longer married, Dave remained her constant support, and a dear friend.

After their divorce, Donna began selling Mary Kay products, and discovered that she had found her calling. Donna became a top producer, and eventually was promoted to a director at Mary Kay Cosmetics Inc. She was a hard worker, and many people found her an inspirational and engaging speaker at Mary Kay Awards Ceremonies. Donna was a loving mother who always bragged about her kids. Always social, Donna loved to talk on the phone, and was never in a hurry. She remained organized and practical as an adult, and was wonderful at managing her money, being an avid coupon clipper too. An amazing cook, Donna could grill a delicious steak, and loved watching those around her enjoy her cooking. Donna was also involved at her church, St. Isadore Parrish in Laingsburg, where she was a member. Donna enjoyed being involved in many prayer groups and bible studies.

Unfortunately, in Spring of 2007, Donna received the hardest of news when she was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer. Through her struggle, Donna's true spirit shone, and those around her were able to see what a beautiful woman she truly was. Strong and courageous, Donna continued to care for those around her as she fought the cancer. Even in her late stages, she looked for ways to serve others. Once, in the hospital, she even took it upon herself to make sure the doorman received a special cake on his birthday. A self proclaimed "lovey-dovey" person, Donna was often over the top in her caring for others. She loved to travel as well, and enjoyed many trips with her kids before and after her diagnoses. As Donna's struggle against cancer continued over four years, Donna continued to touch the hearts of others with her positive attitude. Always laughing, Donna never complained about her condition, but continued to show affection and love. On January 31, 2011, after bravely battling cancer for four years, Donna passed away.

A caring, compassionate woman, Donna touched the lives of many people with her courageous attitude, her upbeat spirit and her quick laugh. A hard working, strong woman, Donna found great joy in the life and people around her. She had a special knack for showing her affection in simple ways, from a smile to a phone call or a special meal. A beloved mother, daughter, sister and friend, Donna will be dearly missed, but her memory will continue to touch the hearts of those she loved.

Surviving are her children, Heather and Tyler White, and their father, Dave White, parents, Joseph and Genevieve Pung, sisters, Marilyn Pung (friend Steve), Denise (Doug) Fox, brothers, Duane (Deb) Pung, Dan Pung and Sandy, Jim (Lisa) Pung, Glenn (Rachelle) Pung, and many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

Funeral Mass will be 10:30 a.m., Friday, February 4, 2011, at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church, with Fr. Dennis Howard presiding, burial will follow at Most Holy Trinity Cemetery. The family will receive friends, Thursday, 2-4 and 7-9 p.m., with rosaries prayed at 3 and 8 p.m., at the Goerge Chapel of Osgood Funeral Homes, 11112 W. Ionia St., Fowler. Contributions may be made in memory of Donna to the Tyler and Heather White Trust Fund c/o Citizen’s Bank, and/or the charity of the family’s choice. To learn more about Donna and view her Life Story film, visit her personal webpage at www.lifestorynet.com/memories/66260.