Donna Wake
Donna Faye Wake left this world suddenly on February 18, 2021. Donna was born in Saint Louis, Missouri to George and Elsie (Ray) Means on November 3, 1959. She graduated from Willow Springs High School in 1978, and shortly after graduation married the love of her life, Leslie Neal Wake. Together, they had two sons, Shawn and Chris.
Her life and work ethic were a living example of Colossians 3:23 – “Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord and not for people, knowing that it is from the Lord that you will receive the reward of the inheritance.”
One of Donna’s greatest legacies will be the life and business she built with her husband. They started with nothing, and because of their grit, perseverance, and ingenuity, they built a beautiful life for their children and grandchildren. Donna was the perfect teammate, willing to work as long or as hard as it took, in whatever conditions necessary. She was fiercely determined, unafraid of anything or anyone.
Donna will be remembered for many things; her legendary salsa, her love of crab legs, her sparkly jewelry and clothes, her constant supply of Pepsi. But mostly, she will be remembered for her endless reservoir of love and servanthood to her husband, children, and grandchildren. Her greatest joy in life was witnessing the achievements of those she loved.
She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Elsie Means; her brother, Bob Curtner; and her sister, Erlene Henderson.
Donna is survived by her husband of 42 years, Leslie Wake; sons, Shawn and wife Lacey, and Chris and wife Jodi; three brothers, Glen, Hollis, and Thomas Curtner; and twelve beloved grandchildren, Xavier, Zacchaeus, Peyton, Trinity, Magdalene, Lilliahna, Augustus, Makalyn, Simon, Emma, Finn, and Gideon. She is also survived by an incalculable number of cousins, in-laws, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends who will miss her dearly.
Please join the family in celebrating Donna’s life Wednesday, February 24, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. at Westside Family Life Center in Willow Springs, Missouri, with Pastor David Lovan officiating under the direction of Yarber Mortuary, Willow Springs, Missouri. Visitation for friends and family was held on Tuesday, February 23, 2021, from 6-8:00 p.m. at Westside Family Life Center. Interment will be in Little Zion Cemetery, Twin Bridges, Missouri. While Donna’s family grieves her loss, they are choosing to remember her in a way that honors her spirit. Memorial contributions may be made to the Convoy of Hope, an organization that Donna and her husband Leslie felt passionately called to serve alongside. Condolences may be expressed at www.yarbermortuary.com.