Donna Marie (McGrath) Schwedhelm

We are saddened to announce the passing of Donna Schwedhelm of Hoskins, Nebraska on September 12, 2023. Funeral arrangements were entrusted with Home for Funerals.

Donna Marie McGrath was born on July 18, 1931, to Lawrence and Sophia McGrath.  She grew up in Norfolk with her parents, 3 sisters and 5 brothers. Donna was a cheerleader in high school and went on to graduate from Sacred Heart High School in 1950.

In her sophomore year of high school, she met Donald Schwedhelm who she would marry in October 1950. Together they had five children, Mike, Pat, Sue, Bert, and Mark.  They moved around a bit early in their marriage but settled back in the Norfolk area in 1962.  Donna worked alongside Don at S&S Lumber Company for many years.  She was a lifelong member of Sacred Heart Parish.

Donna was happiest when surrounded by her friends and family.  She loved to cook and bake.  No one could top her apple strudel or fried chicken.  She enjoyed traveling.  She loved playing cards/games and usually won.

Donna is survived by her loving husband and best friend Don, her children Mike(Nell) Schwedhelm, Pat(Bill) Gaines, Sue(Larry) Kollath, Bert(Mary) Schwedhelm, Mark(Gary) Schwedhelm, 13 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, brothers Dick(Lorraine) McGrath and Neal(Kay) McGrath and sister-in-law, Mary Jean Horst, plus numerous nieces and nephews. She was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother who will be greatly missed by all.

A private ceremony was held to celebrate her life.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Donna’s name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.