Donna Carol Rose

Donna Rose 

January 3, 1942 - February 24, 2026 

Otway Resident F

. C. Daehler Mortuary

Donna Rose brought laughter and love into the lives of everyone she met. Known for her spunk and sass, Donna lived a life full of adventure. She never hesitated to make memories, whether through traveling, painting beautiful murals, creating crafts, enjoying nature barefoot, singing country music, hosting shin-digs, or spending time with the people she loved most.

Donna loved to cook, decorate for every holiday, and be the boss at all times. She never shied away from a challenge, which made her a true entrepreneur. Over the years, she owned Roses Pizza, a jean shop, a T-shirt shop, and made and sold crafts, along with many other ventures.

Donna will be forever missed by her family and her many, many friends. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Frank Rose, who was called home to be by her side one week after her passing; by her brothers, Mark Anthony Gillette, who died at birth; Everett Gillette and Bill Gillette; and by her sisters Roma Lute, Judy Delong, Mary Gamporcano, Peggy Jewett, and Betty Strickland.

She is survived by her children, Brian (Ellen) Rose, Greg (Cathy) Rose, and Amy (Michael) Blanton; her grandchildren, Michelle VanDyke, Pam Campbell, Carrie Campbell, John Campbell, Mike Campbell, Koty Rose, Kandace Stevens, Halli Kellemeyer, Hannah Kellemeyer, and Lacey Blanton; as well as many great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. She is also survived by her brothers Frank (Jeanne) Gillette and Mick (Brenda) Gillette, and her sister Sandy (Mack) Fugitt.

Though our hearts are heavy, we take comfort in knowing Donna was guided by her love of Christ, which shined through in everything she did.

A celebration worthy of Mammaw Donna and the life she lived will be announced at a later date.

Please visit www.fcdaehler.com to leave a special memory of Donna or condolences for her family.