Donna was born on September 4, 1935, in the small town of Gilman, Colorado, to her parents Ella Swanson and Oscar Gustafson. Growing up with her beloved sister, Shirley Florence Tophigh, Donna’s life was filled with the love and values that would shape her into the woman we all came to know and cherish.

Donna married in 1956 to Tommy Lee Nail. She was blessed with a son, Darrell Lee Nail, born on May 18, 1956, who became the center of her world. Her love and devotion to Darrell were immeasurable, and through him, she continued to build a legacy of kindness, care, and family. On December 21, 1982, Donna married Rendel Aubrey, who brought her happiness and companionship for many years. Together, they shared a deep love and a beautiful partnership that enriched Donna’s life.

One of Donna’s simple but cherished joys was working on her calendar kits. She also had an enduring love for her football team, the Minnesota Vikings, and she cheered them on with loyalty and spirit, no matter the outcome of the game.

Donna’s heart was always focused on others. She made it her mission to check in on family and friends, ensuring that everyone knew they were loved and cared for. She never missed a birthday, always sending a card that arrived just in time and signed it with her special phrase, “Lots of hugs and kisses.” These small but heartfelt gestures were her way of making everyone feel cherished and remembered.

In her community, Donna was well-loved and well-known. She interacted with everyone with a friendly attitude and a genuine interest in their lives, knowing the names of workers at the local grocery store, church, bank, and other places she frequented. Her presence brought a comfort to those around her, and she was a friend to all who crossed her path.

What we will miss most about Donna is her presence—a constant, comforting light in our lives. Her calls on birthdays and holidays, and her check-ins when we weren’t feeling well. Donna had a way of bringing us together and making us feel loved, no matter where we were.

She survived by her son, Darrell Lee Nail (spouse Kye Nail); Grand Children, David Lee Nail, Angela Kye Sun Nail (spouse Joel Rivera) and Donna Mai Ling Nail; Great Grand Children, Alex Nolan Smith, Evan Charles Lee Rucker, Isaiah Lee Wayne Nail, KyLee Makayla Rivera and Mailani Makena Rivera.

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