Donna Mae Bourget

Donna Mae Bourget passed away peacefully Tuesday, April 4, 2023, at the age of 94.

Donna was born in La-Crosse, July 10, 1928, to Robert and Marie Howard. She was the first successful cesarean child born in La Crosse.

She graduated from Cornell. Donna married Truman Bourget in 1947; they farmed in Cadott, and raised 10 children, who they referred to as “the best crop they ever raised.” She always seemed to know what her children were up to, because “a little bird told me!”

She loved spending time with her large family, reading, gardening and playing cards. One of her favorite pastimes was writing poetry centered around family, friends and faith.

Donna was an active member of the Little Flower Circle and St. Ann’s Society. She also served as the sexton of the St. Rose Cemetery. She was nicknamed “Donna Mae Church” by her children, as she was very faithful to her Catholic beliefs and attended Mass almost daily.

One fond family memory, was coming home from Sunday Mass to the smell of two chickens cooking in the oven, with a large pot of potatoes on the stove and homemade bread.

She is survived by and will be dearly missed by her children – Kay Stelzer, Tom (Colleen) Bourget, Mary (Chuck) Seibel, Joe (Jeanie) Bourget, John (Miriam) Bourget, Andy (Roxi) Bourget, Tim (Sue) Bourget, Jane Ciolkosz and Brian (Cindy) Bourget; 22 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; a brother-in-law; three sisters-in-law; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by husband – Truman; son – Patrick; parents – Robert and Marie (Darling) Howard; brother – William; and multiple in-laws.

We would like to share Mom’s final poem: When you read this, I hope to be in a better land Where God, Truman, Pat and the folks come to take my hand I will miss you! But never fear I’ll be near, the head of the line when you come here.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at noon, Friday, April 14, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Cadott, with Father William Felix officiating. Inurnment will be in the St. Rose Cemetery in Cadott, at a later date.

A memorial visitation will be held from 10 a.m., until the time of service, Friday, at the church.

Leiser Funeral Home in Cadott, is assisting the family. The family wishes to graciously thank the staff at Dove Healthcare West and St. Joseph’s Hospice, for the love and care they gave our Mother.