On the morning of May 21st, 2016 Donna’s amazing journey in life, and courageous battle against ovarian cancer, came to an end as she joined those that have gone before her in the heavenly skies above.
Born November 1, 1953 to Myrlin and Wilma “Billie” Ackerman, Donna enjoyed dance and running with the “neighborhood crew” at an early age. While at Carroll High School, Donna met the man that would later become her husband, father of three boys, and biggest supporter and caregiver, Mike. They married August 20, 1977. Donna graduated from Washington State University (Go Cougs!) and began her career as a Physical Education teacher. Donna first taught in the Naches School District then moved to the East Valley School District. She spent over 35 years inspiring and empowering students to be the best they can be, whether in the classroom or as a coach of both volleyball and track and field. She admired and cherished the student athletes she had the pleasure of coaching, as well as, the life long relationships that were created through coaching. Outside of work, Donna was an incredible wife, mother, friend, and mentor to many in the community.
Donna enjoyed all aspects of life due to the people and faith she incorporated into her daily approach. She was an avid member of the Catholic Church and relied on her faith at all times, especially during her illness. Some of her greatest memories in life were attributed to her and Mike’s involvement with her three sons participation in sports, ranging from running boosters clubs to cheering them on from the stands. In her final chapter of life, she kept her love for sports alive as a season ticket holder to the Seattle Seahawks. Donna and Mike would make the trip over from Yakima to Seattle for every Sunday home game. For rest and relaxation Donna loved to be near the water, and was especially fond of their family trips to Lake Chelan and spending time on their boat.
There are many words in which you would use to portray Donna and how she left her touch on this world. For those that had the privilege of getting to know her, even if it were for a short period of time, would understand that she was truly a selfless individual that put helping others above all else. She never did waver from her belief in God, family, and mission in life to give back to those willing to allow her into their lives. As we all lose an incredible human being, heaven most certainly welcomes an angel.
Donna is survived by her husband of 38 years, Mike, of Yakima; son Ryan of Seattle; son Chris of Seattle; son Todd (Krissy) of Olympia; brother Paul (Pegi) Ackerman of Yakima; brother Bradley Ackerman of Yakima; brother Jerry (Nancy) Ackerman of Seattle, and their daughter and Donna’s adored niece Katie; brother Michael Ackerman of Yakima; and Mike’s mom and siblings. Her parents Myrlin and Wilma “Billie” Ackerman of Yakima preceded her in death.
Viewing will be held at Keith & Keith Funeral Home Friday, June 3rd, from 3:00-8:00 p.m.
A vigil service will be held Friday June 3, 2016 at 7:00 p.m. at Keith and Keith Funeral Home.
A Mass of Christian Burial to celebrate Donna’s beautiful life will be held on Saturday June 4, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Family Church.
Interment will be at Calvary Cemetery.
Special thanks from the entire Perrault family to all of you, who knew, loved, and cared for Donna.
In lieu of flowers, please have a mass said for her, or send donations to North Star Lodge Cancer Treatment Center through The Memorial Foundation.
To celebrate the life of Donna and share a memory visit www.keithandkeith.com.
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