Donna Nelson
Remember the good ole days when cowgirls ruled
Donna Carol (Reidlinger) Nelson, 73, passed away peacefully in her Monroe, Washington, home on November 8, 2018. Donna, second daughter of Martin and Joanne (Chappel) Reidlinger of Troy, was born in Bonners Ferry on May 6, 1945. She was raised in a strong timber industry family in Troy, MT and attended local school.
Donna was a very social person with an independent soul and infectious smile, who was able to pick up a conversation with anyone, anywhere. She was also a good listener, who often consoled others who were having personal challenges. Larry often referred to Donna as his redneck back alley psychologist. Donna also had personal challenges in her own life, which she fortunately overcame. Donna enjoyed entertaining, dancing, golfing, skiing, camping, vacationing, family events and visiting with family and friends. In her waning years, she took particular joy in having her grandchildren and great-grandchildren by her side.
Donna followed her husband’s career in the construction services industry, residing in various locations that included New York, Alaska and Washington state, ultimately settling in their Monroe, Washington, home, where they resided for the past 25 years. Donna worked much of her adult life in various capacities that included mill work, factory work, construction services and food services. She retired in 2004 after working six years for the Monroe school lunch program, where her grandson attended school.
Donna is survived by her Husband of thirty years, Larry Nelson, and her six children, Sherman Bryant, Jesse Bryant, Donnie Bryant, Jeff Nelson, LaDean (Nelson) Anderson and Christa (Nelson) Miller. She is also survived by sisters Bonnie Price, Darla Lindsey and Carla Bambino, and a brother, Dennis Riedlinger, as well as numerous extended family members and friends.
A celebration of life for Donna will be held on Sunday, July 21, at the Post Falls Senior and Events Center located at 1215 E. 3rd Ave., Post Falls, Idaho. The celebration of life ceremony will commence at 1 p.m., with food and beverages to follow. All family and friends are invited to attend.