Donna Manning Sims

Donna was born on September 12, 1947 in Toledo, OH to Betty Jean Manning. Growing up in and out of foster care took a heavy toll on her, one that made her the independent, sassy, bull headed, stubborn polock we all knew and loved. After being separated from her brothers and sisters 50 some years they were all reunited a few years ago giving her the sense of family.

Shortly after she married William Heller in Ohio they welcomed their first child (oops) in 1966, Michele Heller Bahrman and then a son, Warren Todd Heller in 1969.

After leaving Ohio she settled in Skandia, MI. She was an adult graduate of North Dickinson High School, Felch, MI. which she was very proud of. She went to the UP Beauty School and eventually became an instructor at NMU School of Cosmetology. She also had a business at her residence (The Comb Home).

Some of her jobs included Optician for Dr. Steven Morris, & Target Optical. Then later an Instructor at a nail school in Florida.

Donna was passionate about helping people in her community and was instrumental in beginning the Skandia – West Branch First Responder Service and was an original member of the STAR Ambulance service in Sagola. Donna began her retirement years in Deltona, Fl where she resided until her passing.

Her hobbies included, crocheting, cake decorating ceramics, enjoyed going on the Casino Cruise Boat, & she had an enormous collection of Pigs! She loved to watch NCIS calling them “her boys” She always said it was a “new” episode, even though we’ve seen it 5 times before. She never wanted to go anywhere but we always had to bring her something. We are really going miss you MOM.

Donna is survived by her daughter, Michele (Barry) Bahrman, Son, Todd (Tammy) Heller, Grandchildren: Roger (Jen) Bahrman, Joshua (Michaela) Bahrman, Justin (Sarah) Bahrman, Garren Heller, Jacob (Kenlynn) Heller, Brandon (Jesse) Roy, & Dillon Roy. Great-Grandchildren: Watt, Addison, Abram, & Nani Bahrman, Mason, Mia, & Madison Bahrman, & Lucy Heller. Braxtyn, Colton & Sophia Roy, Shylah, Kalista & Dylyla; Sisters: Sharon (Don) Orth, Connie Musinex, Sandy (Ken) Hurley, Beatrice (Tommy) Lane, Barbara Manning Nucci. Brothers: Ronald Manning, Gary (Tina) Manning, & Terry Manning & Several Nieces & Nephews and cousins.

Donna has been reunited with her Mother, Betty Manning and Infant Daughter, Elizabeth Jane Heller, Her sister Mary Jane Manning, Previous Mother and Father in Law, Warren & Phyllis Heller. As well as her devoted fur babies, Tasha, Rufus & Damn It Jake!

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude for the kindness of and watchful eyes of Special Neighbors, Hannah & Rob Watkins & Eric & Erica Cerbulis & Cameron. Graveside services will be held at a later date. In lieu of Flowers, memorials may be directed to Michele Bahrman, 372 Townline Rd, Skandia, MI 49885.

The Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral & Cremation Services is serving the family where condolences may be expressed online at www.fassbenderswansonhansen.com.