Donna Jean Dietz

Donna was born on April 3, 1934 to Freeman and Mildred (Sanders) Krebs in Shelbyville, Indiana. Growing up, she lived above Krebs Grocery owned and ran by her parents and grandfather. Her love of all things sports began in high school, where she graduated valedictorian of the Shelbyville High School class of 1952. It was only fitting that Donna fell for a football quarterback, and she married her high school sweetheart William (Bill) Dietz on December 26, 1954. She was the proud mother of three children, Millie Bennett, Brad Dietz, and Ted Dietz, and the Momma Donna to her grandson, Chad.

Over the years, Donna and her family lived in Shelbyville, Indianapolis, Columbus, Indiana, and Jacksonville, Florida. She spent countless hours at her children’s sporting events, and was considered the cool mom of her children’s friends. Donna’s love of sports continued beyond her children’s endeavors, and for years she followed, loudly and voraciously, Indiana University Basketball, the Jacksonville Jaguars, as well as numerous other teams.

An avid traveler, Donna had been to almost every state, several European countries, and was baptized in the Jordan River in Israel. She also made the sojourn to Indiana often to visit family and friends in Indianapolis and Shelbyville, often searching for the best pork tenderloin sandwich during her visits. Donna loved her frequent and sometime cut-throat card and Bridge games with her friends. She was also a master crafter, from cross-stitch to crochet, Donna could make almost anything, and owned a crafting store in Columbus.

Donna was also dedicated to her various church ministries, hosting and leading Bible studies for several area churches. Her deep love of her Christian faith made her a friend to many, and she was always willing to listen to anyone’s troubles and successes.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents, husband Bill, and son Ted. She is survived by her children, Millie and Brad (Jann), and her grandson Chad (Courtney) of Jacksonville, her brother Jack (Betty) Krebs, niece Courtney (Ian) Henderson of Indianapolis, and her many friends, extended family and loved ones.

A memorial graveside service will be held on Friday, October 15 at 11:00 AM at Oaklawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Mayo Clinic Covid Research Division.