Donna M. Kuykendall

Madison – Donna M. Kuykendall, age 73, passed away peacefully on Wednesday October 4, 2023 after a brief illness.  She was born June 15, 1950 in Madison to the late Leon and Hazel (Manson) Kuykendall.  Donna worked for three decades, with the support of Pathways of Wisconsin, retiring in 2020.

Donna loved her work at the Department of Health and Family Services (DHFS) building. She thoroughly enjoyed the paper collection route getting to see the DHFS staff and participating in all celebrations throughout the building. Donna also loved horses and wore clothing displaying horses whenever she could. For many years she rode horses at Three Gates Inc in Oregon, Wisconsin which was her favorite activity. Donna also enjoyed bowling, fishing, shopping, eating out, and doodling. She seldom was without a pen or two and something to doodle on. She loved animals, especially dogs.

Donna is survived by her niece Diana Kiesling of Madison; nephew Mitchel Kuykendall of Valdosta, GA; niece Meg Shively (Kevin) of Gunter, TX, and many great nieces and great nephews.

She is preceded by her parents; brother Dudley Kuykendall of Bay City, TX; brother Frederick Kuykendall, Madison; her niece Dawn Kuykendall, Madison, along with several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Throughout Donna’s life she was supported and cared for by many wonderful people. The family would like to thank REM Wisconsin, Pathways of Wisconsin, especially Karen Schwanz who worked with Donna for 30 years, and Dr. William Schwab, M.D. who provided wonderful care to her for many years.

A celebration of life service will be held at 11:30 AM on Friday October 13, 2023 at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3325 E. Washington Ave. Madison.  Visitation will be from 10:30 AM until the service at the funeral home on Friday.  A light lunch will be served at the funeral home directly following the service. A private family burial will take place at Forrest Hills Cemetery, Madison, at a later date.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3325 E. Washington Ave.

Madison (608) 249-6666