Donna Marilyn O'Brien, 83

Donna Marilyn O’Brien, 83, of Iowa City, Iowa, died Monday, Feb. 11, 2019, at her home after a brief illness. The family is grateful for the assistance provided by Hospice Care during her final days, and to her special friends in Iowa City for their support in her later years.

Donna was born Nov. 12, 1935, in Massillon, Ohio, the daughter of William and Pearl (Giffin) O’Brien. She graduated from high school in Oak Park, Illinois, received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Cornell College in Mount Vernon, Iowa, and her master’s degree in education from the University of Iowa. During college Donna worked during summers at Rocky Mountain National Park. She taught school in Illinois, Arizona, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Iowa City and continued to volunteer in primary schools well into her retirement. Her Spanish language ability was a valuable asset as many of the children she tutored were primarily Spanish speakers.

Donna was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Iowa City and she volunteered for several charities. Although she never had children of her own, she cherished her opportunity to sponsor over 40 Central American families through Plan/International.

Donna’s honors included Phi Beta Kappa, Mortar Board and a Foster Parent of the Year award. Donna found great joy in teaching children in Iowa City and other schools and sponsoring children/families she didn’t even know!

Her family includes her brother William “Bill” O’Brien and his wife Beverly, and her nephews, Tim and Mat O’Brien of Kalispell. She also leaves to mourn her many friends in Iowa, Illinois and Arizona. Donations may be made to a charity of your choice in Donna’s memory.

No services are being planned; Gay and Ciha Funeral and Cremation Services of Iowa City are taking care of Donna’s arrangements.