Donna Marie Gould

Donna Marie Stag was born in Chicago Illinois on October 23, 1936 to Stanley and Eleanor Stag. Donna, her sister Joyce, and their parents ventured out west in the early 40s, settling in Glendale California. Donna was involved in her community early on, winning several titles in beauty pageants, including Miss Operation Safety. Donna worked as a dental hygienist in Hollywood and performed in an entertainment troupe, dazzling troops with her hula dance. Her beauty and hula prowess earned her the affection of many suitors. Donna may have stolen many hearts, but only one stole hers. She met her future husband, Charles Gould, while roller skating with her family. She married Charles on July 7, 1956 and the two became proud parents of three children, Gary, Colleen, and Dean. Donna was an ardent Catholic who remained firm in her faith all her life. Only Donna’s passion for nature matched her passion for the Lord. She fostered a lifetime of love for the mountains, spending many vacations in the Sierras prior to moving to Bass Lake. She spent summers hiking, taking jeep rides, collecting Native American artifacts, and tending to a marvelous garden. Donna was not only a friend to plants but to animals as well. She adopted and rescued many cats and dogs throughout her life…even a few baby ducks. Donna’s hospitality was unmatched. Offering whatever she could to those around her as a sign of her love is something she will always be remembered for...that and her unbeatable gravy. Extending beyond her family and friends, Donna enjoyed giving to the ASPCA and Wounded Warrior Project, two causes that always had her heart. Donna is survived by her three children and their families. She was a wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, cousin, neighbor, lover, fighter, and friend. She will be greatly missed but will live on in the hearts of those who love her.