Donna Jean Charnley VanOcker, 97 passed away peacefully on May 9, 2025 in her home in Traverse City, Michigan in the presence of her loved ones.  Donna was born on April 7, 1928. 

Donna was preceded in death by her husband, Robert VanOcker; her son Ronnie VanOcker; her brother Robert Charnley; her sister Vivian Charnley Tanner, and her companion Joseph McGee.

Donna is survived by her son, David VanOcker; her daughter, Jill VanOcker (Craig Nelsen); her granddaughter, Makayla Huffman; her grandson, Cameron Huffman; her great granddaughter, Grace Justice; and several nieces and nephews.  She also leaves many other family members and friends who shared in the joys of her life.

Donna was born and raised in Lakeview, Michigan.  She married Bob VanOcker in 1949 and stayed to raise her children in the small town that she loved. Donna was a joyful energetic lady who loved to socialize with her family and friends. Her greatest joys were found in raising her children and caring for her family and her home. Donna was a long-time member of the United Church of Christ and enjoyed serving the Lord by participating in the choir and kitchen ministry.  Donna also served her community by volunteering at the hospital for several years as well as coordinating the American Red Cross blood drives in Lakeview for over a decade.  After Bob passed, Donna moved to Grand Rapids for a short time and then settled into a new home on Clifford Lake where she and her dear friend, Joe McGee, spent several years enjoying life on the lake with family and friends. In her later years, Donna moved to Traverse City to be closer to her son, David.  Her grandchildren and her great-granddaughter were especially precious to her in her last years. Donna was blessed to be able to continue living in her home being cared for by her family.

A celebration of life will be held for family and friends at 4:00 p.m., Thursday, July 24th at The Clifford Lake Inn.  To help us plan, please contact Jill VanOcker if you’re planning to attend.  text 3159554008 or email  jillvanocker@gmail.com or via fb messenger 

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