Donna R. McDaniels

Donna Rae McDaniels passed away at Mantey Heights Rehabilitation Center in Grand Junction, Colorado on January 2, 2014. She was 71.

Donna was born to Cecil Banta and Myrtle Crandall in Palisade, Colorado on July 8, 1942. The family moved to the Eagle and Gypsum areas where they made their living as Sheep Ranchers. Donna’s family had distant relatives among a Ute Indian tribe. Because of this, she had a deep appreciation for Native American art, history, and especially jewelry.

Donna was an artistic person, and loved to replicate Indian jewelry herself. She also enjoyed reading, doing crosswords, and various art projects. The foremost love in Donna’s life however was always her family. She had so much love to give and was a very caring person. Not surprisingly; her profession was also as a Caretaker. While she resided in Grand Junction for more than 30 years, she provided in home healthcare consistently to several special individuals. She was a natural at what she did, just as she was a mother and grandmother. She will be deeply missed.

Donna is survived by her sons; Shawn McDaniels of DeBeque, Colorado and Jeremy Kevin McDaniels of Clifton, Colorado. Her daughters; Dani Lynn Mull of Fruita, Colorado and Michelle R. McDaniels of Grand Junction, Colorado. Her brother Tommy Banta of Grand Junction, Colorado and her sister JoAnna Shankel of Grand Junction, Colorado. Six grandchildren (with one on the way); Kevin, Dawn, J.P., Brandon, Michaella, and Becca. As well as niece’s and nephew’s; Timmy Banta, Jay and Angie Robinson, and Kent and Kelly Green.

Donna is preceded in death by her son Jamie Ray Banta who died when he was only one year old. Her brother Mike Banta, and her sisters Phyllis Applegarth and Linda Robinson.

Something that Donna always wanted in life was for her family to be happy. She did not want to be grieved over, or to cause pain and heartache to anyone. The poem below encompasses her wishes, so please share it with someone who may be needing comfort as well.

A Letter From Heaven

When tomorrow starts without me,

And I am not here to see,

If the sun should rise and find your eyes,

Filled with tears for me.

I wish so much you wouldn't cry,

The way you did today,

While thinking of the many things,

We didn't get to say.

I know how much you love me,

As much as I love you,

And each time you think of me,

I know you’ll miss me too.

When tomorrow starts without me,

Don’t think we’re far apart,

For every time you think of me,

I’m right there in your heart.

Arrangements under the direction of Martin Mortuary, Grand Junction, CO.