Dona Heyer

Dona Ann Heyer, 88, of Belvidere, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family.

She was born on April 27, 1937, in Russell, Kansas, to Dean and Zelma (Burhle) Bear. On June 28, 1958, she married William E. Heyer in Nodine, Minnesota. Together, they built a life rooted in love, faith, and family, sharing many cherished years until his passing on July 18, 2016.

Dona dedicated 26 years of her career as an assembly worker with Chrysler, yet her greatest work was the life she built beyond her career—one centered on faith, kindness, and devotion to others. A charter member of New Life Lutheran Church since 1989, she actively participated in the women’s ministry, served as church librarian for several years, and faithfully attended worship and Bible study. Her pastor remembered her as humble and steadfast, someone who truly lived her faith and shared the love of her Savior with all around her.

In her personal life, Dona found joy in crocheting, reading, traveling, and, above all, spending time with her family. She was the heart of her family—a loving presence who gave of herself freely, never expecting anything in return. Fiercely loyal and kind, she left a lasting impression on everyone blessed to know her, and her life stands as a quiet yet powerful testament to faith in action, unconditional love, and selfless generosity. Dona found great comfort in God’s promise of eternal life and looked forward with peace to the day she would be with Him—now, as God has promised, she is there.

She is survived by her children, Linda (James) Ward and Bill (Patti) Heyer; her grandchildren, Jason (Narria) Ward, Joseph Todd (Stephanie) McKay, Jennifer (Mike) Howard, William D. (Stephanie) Heyer, Derek (Amanda) Geishert, Paul (Nikki) Hale, and Dustin Geishert; and her siblings, Reva Grant and Gale Bear; and several great and great great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, William; her brother, Dwight Bear; her sister, Elizabeth Kneisley; her daughter, Pamela Hale; and her son, James Heyer.

A memorial service will be held on May 9, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Amazing Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, 5809 Prairie Hill Road, South Beloit, IL 61080. Visitation will be held prior to the service, beginning at 11:00 a.m., where family and friends are invited to gather and honor her life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary Student Assistance Fund, supporting the education and training of future pastors—a meaningful tribute to her faith and values.