Donna Sue Burgess' Obituary
Donna Sue Burgess, age 79, beloved wife, mother, and grandmother passed away peacefully at home with family on December 11th, 2021. Donna was born in West Virginia on September 26, 1942 to Harry and Opal Caldwell and as a young child, the family moved to Michigan. Donna enjoyed a happy childhood with her siblings with fun memories and while in high school she met the love of her life, Kenneth Burgess, and in 1961 they wed and went on to have three children, Stephen, David and Kristi. Ken and Donna resided in Troy, MI and on December 3rd, 2021 celebrated 60 years of loving marriage. Ken was a selfless and devoted husband who always lovingly cared for his wife. Ken and Donna have beautiful family memories including hosting an annual Burgess Christmas Eve where family enjoyed singing Christmas carols, playing games and spending time with one another.
Donna loved and cherished her children, sons Steve and Dave, and years later, daughter Kristi. She was a gentle, caring and kind mother who was proud of all her children’s accomplishments including their career choices and love of family. Donna also always had a strong bond with her daughter Kristi. Donna was a wonderful cook and everyone especially loved her spaghetti and homemade fried chicken. Donna was happy being a stay at home mom; however, for a short time in the early 1980’s she enjoyed working with children to improve their reading as a Title 1 aide with the Warren Consolidated Schools.
In 1988, Donna became a grandma to twins David and Krista by her eldest son Stephen, and her world changed for the better. Ken and Donna were so thrilled to be grandparents. Donna made a big impact on their lives by giving them the unconditional love and support that only a loving grandmother could give. They have many amazing memories of her such as her taking them to the park, picking them up from preschool and getting ice cream, talking on the phone at all hours, putting warm towels on them when cold, and always knowing she was a phone call away. Years later, she welcomed her third grandchild, Brittany, by her daughter Kristi and son in law Tom, whom she loved dearly, and shortly after, welcomed grandson, Braden and finally, their youngest granddaughter, Brooke. Donna and Ken loved to attend their school and sporting events and all dance recitals. Her grandchildren was one of her life’s greatest joys.
Donna also loved spending time with her siblings and although her brother Larry lives in Massachusetts, she felt close to him in her heart. Her older sister, Dixie, always gave her love and support and she had a beautiful, warm and loving relationship with her recently deceased sister Sandy, a gifted artist who made everyone feel special. Donna also loved her younger sister Tammy and her face would light up when she was saw her or even if she just heard her voice. Last, but not least, Donna adored her thoughtful younger brother Jack and sister in law Betty as their frequent visits brightened her day and made her feel special and loved and it was a true blessing that they were able to visit during Ken and Donna’s 60th wedding anniversary celebration just days before she passed. Donna also has enjoyed her wonderful nieces and nephews.
Donna is preceded in death by her son, David Burgess, who sadly succumbed to cancer in 2016, sister, Sandra Caldwell, and her parents, Harry and Opal Caldwell. We know she is now an angel among them. She is lovingly survived by her husband, Kenneth Burgess, son, Stephen Burgess, and daughter, Kristi Jaworski (Tom), brothers Larry (Faith) Caldwell, Jack (Betty) Caldwell, and sisters Dixie and Tamara Caldwell. "Grandma" Donna is also survived by her five grandchildren, David and Krista Burgess and Brittany, Braden, and Brooke Jaworski. She is also survived by amazing nieces Kimberly (Brad) Legree, Laura (Todd) Hisey and nephews, Mark (Jennifer) Caldwell, Sean (Buffie) Caldwell and Van (Amy) Caldwell along with many great nieces and nephews.
Donna had an infectious smile, loved to compliment others, and always made you feel special and loved. She had a wonderful husband and she lived a life well loved. A memorial gathering and service is planned for Sunday, January 2nd from 12-4pm, with a service commencing at 3pm at Hopcroft Funeral Home, 31145 John R Rd., Madison Heights, MI 48071. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Alzheimer's Association.
"Rest in Peace Mom, your heart has touched many and your love will live on."
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