Donna Jean Dekker

Donna Jean Dekker, age 79, of Rhinelander, passed away on Friday October 20, 2023, at Milestone Senior Living in Rhinelander. She had been in Hospice care since Jan 25, 2021.

Donna was born Jan. 8, 1944 the daughter of Hazel and James Dekker. She graduated from Rhinelander High School in 1962 and attended the University of Wisconsin in Eau Claire. Graduating in 1966 with a degree in Foreign Language, she went on teach Spanish in the Neillsville school system for 37 years.

Donna loved the Spanish culture and teaching Spanish. Wanting her students to have a thorough understanding of the customs, language, people and culture, Donna incorporated Spanish songs, dancing, and crafts in her classes. She even went as far as creating a game, so her students had a solid understanding of verbs. Donna also welcomed 11 teacher aides from South America to Neillsville, who helped with teaching the language and customs of their home countries. In 1976 Donna chaperoned the first group of students to Mexico.  There would be 6 more trips over the years. 

During her tenure at Neillsville, Donna founded the Spanish Honor Society and served as the advisor. Miss Dekker was the Wisconsin State Director of Sociedad, a national Spanish Honor Society for secondary schools, for 20 years, receiving “State Director of the Year” in 1991.

In retirement, Donna played the clarinet for the Marshfield Civic Band and enjoyed the Sousa marches. She also taught English as a Second Language for the Chippewa Valley Technical College in Neillsville. Spending more time in Rhinelander was another retirement luxury.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters Lois and Marian and her brothers Ed and Jim. She is survived by many relatives and friends.

The family would like to extend their appreciation to Hospice and Milestone Senior Living for providing loving care to Donna in her final days.

A graveside service for Donna will take place on Saturday, October 28, 2023, at 1:30 p.m. at Forest Home Cemetery. Please meet at the cemetery by 1:15 p.m. 

Chaplain John Uhlarik will officiate.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hildebrand Funeral Home & Cremation Specialists, 24 E. Davenport Street, Rhinelander, Wisconsin, 54501, 715-365-4343. 

Everyone is invited to sign the guestbook or leave an online condolence at www.hildebrandrussfh.com.