Donna Abler

Donna Mae Odbert, daughter of Leslie and Alice (Greisinger) Odbert, was born August 22, 1943 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Donna grew up and received her education in Milwaukee, graduating as Valedictorian of both her high school class and her nursing school class of 1965 at Milwaukee County General Hospital School of Nursing. While living in Milwaukee, Donna was married to Ronald Abler, and this union was blessed with four children: Randy, Bill, Greg and Laurie. The family lived in the Madison, WI area for a few years before moving to Duluth, MN. Several years later, Donna returned to Milwaukee, where she lived for a short time before returning to Northern Minnesota. In her most recent years, Donna has made Hibbing, MN her home. While living in Hibbing, she has been an active member of the Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church.

Donna’s life will be remembered as one that was filled with gratitude. Although she often had to face adversity, she was always able to see the glass as half-full. The thing she was most grateful for was her beautiful family. She cherished the times that allowed her to gather with her children and grandchildren, drinking coffee and sharing her stories. She also enjoyed quilting, she loved photography and was always grateful for the companionship she received from her dog, who she loved to spoil with a regular diet of chocolate pudding.

Donna died on Monday, September 20, 2010 at the Good Samaritan Center in Hoffman, MN, having lived to reach the age of 67 years.

She is survived by four children: Randy (Gail Wells) Abler of Savannah, GA, Bill (Lena) Abler of Atlanta, GA, Dr. Greg (Kristi) Abler of Morris, MN and Laurie Abler of Chapel Hill, NC; five grandchildren: Alycia Abler, Elizabeth Abler, Addison Abler, Heather Abler and William Abler; two brothers: Bill Odbert of Milwaukee, WI and Roger Odbert of Florida and one niece, Ann (Mike) Kirtley. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Pallbearers for the service will be Donna’s Children & Grandchildren: Randy Abler, Bill Abler, Greg Abler, Laurie Abler, Alycia Abler, Elizabeth Abler, Addison Abler, Heather Abler and William Abler. Pedersen Funeral Home in Morris is in charge of the arrangements.