Bruce: Donna Lee (nee Newberg) passed away peacefully on December 28, 2010 at her Rossland home with her family present following a cancer illness. She was born on September 14, 1952 and raised in Spokane, WA by her parents Esther (Querengesser) of Edmonton, AB and Gordon Newberg of Hurley, WI.
Donna was the second of three children, sandwiched between her older brother David and younger brother Dwight. She had an active childhood; she attended North Central High School, belonged to Campfire Girls with her mother as the leader, and attended Salem Lutheran church with family and spent summers at Camp Lutherhaven. Donna sang in many choirs and was also a cheerleader. She obtained a Masters degree in Education at Eastern Washington University and moved to Kettle Falls, WA where she became a popular school teacher. She developed many enduring friendships there and had a knack for developing life long friendships wherever she was.
Later, Donna met the love of her life Albert Bruce, eventually they married and she moved to Rossland, but continued to teach. They had two daughters Nairne Holly and Nicole Violet. Eventually, Donna decided to stay at home with her family. She loved music, camping, community and church, but most of all her family. Donna enjoyed singing in the Rossland choir and teaching voice, guitar and piano lessons. Throughout her life, she was a very spiritual person. Most will remember Donna for her warm glow and positive, supportive attitude; she was a mother to all. She will be missed greatly and loved always.
Donna is survived by her husband Albert, daughters Nairne (Devin Huziak) and Nicole Bruce, father-in-law John Bruce, brothers David (Kim) of Deer Park, WA and Dwight (Lisa) of Spokane Valley, WA, brothers-in-law Robert, Thomas, and Leonard, and sister-in-law Rita Forrest, as well as many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents and mother-in-law Mary Bruce.
A memorial service will be held at the St. Andrew’s United Church in Rossland on Friday, January 7, 2011 at 2:00 p.m., with Rev. Keith Simmonds officiating. Al Grywacheski of Personal Alternative Funeral Services “Carberry’s Chapel” is entrusted with arrangements.
As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made in Donna’s memory can be directed to St. Andrews United Church, Box 277, Rossland, BC V0G1Y0.