Obituary

Donna Jeanne Tollefsrud, 92, a lifelong resident of Rockford, passed away on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at Fairhaven Healthcare Center. She was born August 3, 1932, the only child of C. Fay and Esther M. (Swan) Ramsey. Donna was an early graduate of Rockford West High School, Class of 1949. She began her career of working in medical offices before marrying Richard N. Tollefsrud in 1951, and starting a family with two daughters, Christine M. and Wendy A., in 1952 and 1955, respectively. Donna returned to various medical offices, but was most proud of the almost 20 years at OSF-St. Anthony, retiring as Administrative Transcription in 2001, where she was respected and remembered by many.

Donna enjoyed daytime gameshows, local news, evening Shark Tank, unending reruns of The Golden Girls, and following Cubs games. She did crossword puzzles in ink, was a good and generous cook; had zero sense of direction, but enjoyed flying to Florida or being taken to visit nearby relatives in IL and WI, as well as hosting visiting family (and student nurses) at the big house that she and Dick built in 1968. Donna loved playing bridge, and was founding member of a club that lasted 60 years - but it was the only game she did not play on the computer. Donna’s computer was used to share details of her daily life, family news, and photos to a far and wide audience via emails, including everything humorous she’s received.

Donna mourned the loss of daughter, Wendy Broman, in 2014, but was loved “big much” by Wendy’s daughter, Allison Broman, and her daughter, Dakota Larson, whom she adored and doted on. Daughter, Christine Schaeffer, and others will miss Donna’s quick wit, flashing smile, laughing eyes, and big hugs. Donna is further survived by one remaining first cousin, Marion McMahon, many dear second cousins (special thanks to Sue Wick), and Tollefsrud nieces and nephews. Predeceased by parents, many aunts, uncles and cousins, brothers-in-law/sister-in-law, and former husband.

It was Donna’s wish for no funeral service, but the family did hold a small, private viewing at Olson’s North Main Chapel before cremation rites were accorded. We wish to thank her Home Instead caregivers, doctors at OSF- St. Anthony, OSF Hospice team (especially Krystal and Andrea), and all of the staff at Fairhaven Healthcare Center for their devotion to Donna’s care and comfort. There are no immediate plans for interment or release of ashes, but we request that friends and family share their thoughts, memories and photos of Donna on the Tribute Wall at Olson Funeral & Cremation Services website