Heiken

Donna passed away peacefully on the afternoon of May 31, 2017, with her son, Maurie Heiken, by her side, at her home in Lake Havasu City, Ariz.

Donna was born to John and Jenny Markel, and was raised and educated in the Hoople, N.D., area, along with her seven brothers and four sisters.

After graduation from high school, Donna moved to Fargo, N.D., and worked at the Manchester Biscuit Company, while attending Dakota Business College. In 1956, she moved to Billings, Mont., where she met Ralph Heiken. The couple were married in August of 1957 and moved to Columbus, Mont., where they founded and managed Timberweld Mfg. for 26 years.

Donna enjoyed cooking, canning, pickling, and was an immaculate housekeeper. She also enjoyed bowling, golfing, playing bridge, china painting, and was a member of the Rock Rose Eastern Star for over 50 years. Donna also taught Sunday school and was a member of the Community Congregational Church in Columbus.

Donna and Ralph also enjoyed spending time with family and friends at their cabin in Nye, Mont., on the West Fork of the Stillwater River.

In 1983, Ralph retired from Timberweld Mfg., and Donna and Ralph moved to Lake Havasu City, Ariz., originally as snow birds, and then became full time residents, where they lived for over 30 years.

Donna is preceded in death by her husband, Ralph Heiken, her parents, seven brothers, and three sisters.

Donna is survived by her daughter Cindy DeWolf (Sacramento, Calif.); son Kyle Heiken (Columbus, Mont.); son Maurie Heiken (Sacramento, Calif.); grandchildren Jason and Jenifer DeWolf, Maggie Lease; and great-granddaughter Seeley.

Donna is also survived by her sister Jane Huber of Valley City, N.D., and dozens of nieces and nephews.

A memorial service for Donna will take place at the Community Congregational Church in Columbus on Thursday, Aug. 24, 2017, at 2 p.m. Family and friends are invited to attend.