On July 8, 2021, Donna Orton, passed away at the age of 68.

Donna was born on March 27, 1953, in Newberg, Oregon. She grew up in Gervais, Oregon, with her 12 siblings. Here she excelled in basketball and track and field and is part of the Gervais Hall of Fame.

Donna was a passionate and stern educator who created imaginative lessons for her students. She also loved puzzles of all types, reading John Grisham novels, and growing strawberries and tomatoes in her garden. Those close to her knew her to bring homemade treats during holidays and to play pranks if she was given the motivation. Even while raising her four children she had unending energy - on the weekends she danced to Neil Diamond and would ride her bike to the coast. Not to mention, she could quickly beat you at any game she learned, be it a board game or physical sport. Donna was never one to sit on the sidelines in life, and always made space for others to pursue their goals.

Donna made a lasting impact on her community through her many students. The memories of her are preserved in the stories told by her siblings and four children. And her mischief, curiosity, and sense of humor live on in her seven grandchildren.

Memorial service will be held on July 24th from 4:30 to 6:30 at the Gervais High School.