Donna M. Bateman

Donna M. Bateman, 70, of Winona/La Crescent, MN., passed into the care of her Lord on Tuesday, March 8, 2022 at Gundersen Health System, La Crosse.  She was born in La Crosse, WI., on May 24, 1951 to Donald and Milda (Moldenhauer) Bateman.

Donna grew up in La Crescent, Minnesota where she graduated from high school. She was always striving to learn and attended multiple institutions of higher education. Donna moved to Coos Bay, Oregon, and received her degree in dental hygiene, which was her lifelong passion. She had a very adventurous spirit, including kayaking, hiking in the mountains, canoeing, fishing and camping. Donna loved sports! She played softball for the University of Minnesota and umpired later in life. She bowled for the University of Minnesota and on leagues throughout her life. She mostly enjoyed attending her nephew’s and niece’s sporting events and watching her beloved Vikings and Twins. She had a soft heart towards many animals, especially dogs and cats. Donna enjoyed photographing wildlife all her life. She was always clowning around. Through her many years as Scrubby the Clown, she took pride in making kids of all ages laugh. She had that childlike spirit! Donna is survived by her sister Barbara Peterson; sister-in-law Penny Bateman; several nieces and nephews; and her special buddy, Henry the dog. She was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Milda; and her brother Gordie. Donna’s family would like to thank Hope House, Lake Winona Manor, Winona Health and Gundersen Health for all of their love and caring support.
Funeral services will be held at 11am on Saturday, March 12, 2022 at St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church in Nodine, MN.  Pastor Jim Nelson will officiate.  Burial will follow in Hiler Cemetery, Nodine. Friends may call on the family Saturday morning at the church from 10am until the time of services.