Donna Lee Tompkins, 87, of Jamestown, ND died on Saturday, January 30, 2021 at Ave Maria Village.
Donna was born January 21, 1934, in Jamestown, to Lawrence and Hannah (Westby) Stoehr. She was raised in the house that her dad built, educated in Jamestown, and graduated in 1952. She worked in medical records and as a receptionist/bookkeeper at Jamestown Hospital for four years, then part time until 1963. She met Gilford Tompkins, a young farmer from Pingree, at a dance in Eldridge; they dated for two years and married November 8, 1954 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Jamestown. They were blessed with five children and raised them on their farm near Pingree. Donna was gracious and kind, and always considered others before herself. She will be remembered for her good cooking, baking, and being a wonderful hostess for family, friends, neighbors and her high school reunion guests. Donna was an avid gardener, growing abundant vegetables for canning and meals. Her yard and flower gardens were beautiful. Mowing her huge yard with the riding lawn mower gave her much joy. She loved animals and always had cats and often a dog living with her. Along with her husband, Gil, she was a great supporter of her children’s school and sporting activities. Later on, she followed her grandchildren and their activities. Donna was involved with Young Mothers’ Club and hosted Nertz and Whist parties and gatherings of family and friends. Donna and Gil planned annual vacations with their children. Medora was a favorite destination, which often included family friends. When Gil passed away unexpectedly in 1984, Donna stayed on the farm, taking over his duties of Atmospheric Weather Observer for 23 more years. She also kept yearly personal journals which were great resources for the year’s planting and harvesting.