Mrs. Donna E. (Rusk) Childers

Mrs. Donna E. Childers, 87, of Galesburg, Illinois died 10:53 p.m. Thursday, February 8, 2024, surrounded by her family at her son’s home in Rio, Illinois after an extended illness.

She was born April 2, 1936, in Galesburg to Charles and Margaret (Moore) Rusk.  She married Ronald L. Childers on January 2, 1955, in Galesburg.  He preceded her in death on October 4, 2005. 

Surviving is a daughter, Ronda (and Mike) Knuth of Abingdon, Illinois two sons, Jeff (and Alice) Childers of Rio, and Mark Childers of Galesburg, six grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren, and a great-great granddaughter.  She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother, Charles Rusk, two sisters, Margaret Witt and Betty Mansperger, and a grandson, Jeremy Childers. 

Donna was raised in the Alpha and Rio area and graduated from ROVA High School in 1954.  She had worked at W.T. Grant, Kline’s and Maurices in Galesburg.  Most of all she loved being a homemaker, taking care of her husband and children.  Donna and Ronald were members of the Prairie Drifters snowmobile club.  She was a volunteer for the Galesburg Rescue Mission for several years.  Two things she enjoyed were spending time with her family and shopping. 

As Donna requested, cremation will be accorded.  A graveside service will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, February 24, 2024, at Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens in Galesburg with David Sholl officiating.  Memorials may be made to the Galesburg Rescue Mission.  Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Service Galesburg Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.  Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com. 

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