Donna Elaine Bruggeman, 83 of Keosauqua, a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on May 28, 2023, in her beloved hometown of Keosauqua. Born on January 9, 1940, to Theodore L. “Jerry” and Ethel A. Runquist Clapper, Donna made a lasting impact on her community through her hard work, kindness, and unwavering support for her family and friends.
Donna attended school in Keosauqua and went on to have a fulfilling career in a variety of roles. In her early days, she worked at the Fairfield Glove Factory and at the cleaners in Keosauqua. Donna’s dedication to her community led her to serve as the Justice of The Peace in Keosauqua from 1971 to 1972 and as the first Magistrate in Van Buren County from 1973 to 1976. Donna’s passion for helping others continued as she worked for more than 35 years for SIEDA in Van Buren County, where she was involved in numerous programs, such as the Food Bank and Nest Program, that greatly benefited the residents of Van Buren County.
Donna was a member of the Twin City Chapter 258 Order of the Eastern Star. Her friendly nature and warm smile made her a beloved figure in the community, and her kindness was felt by all who knew her.
Donna married Carl Dean Bruggeman on May 14, 1957 in Quincy, IL, he passed away on May 17, 2019 after 62 years of marriage. Together, they raised three wonderful children: Carl Dean Bruggeman Jr. of Mankato, MN, Jerri Schafer (Roger) of Birmingham, and Deborah Henry (Richard) of Fond Du Lac, WI.
Family was always at the heart of Donna’s life, and she was a proud grandmother to seven grandchildren: Matthew Philips, Nathan Philips (Amanda), Robert Henry, Rebecca Loehr, Richard Henry, Samantha Bruggeman, and Noah Bruggeman. Donna cherished the time she spent with her family, attending numerous sporting events for her great-grandchildren and sharing her love of fishing with her great-granddaughters, Rylee and Rory.
Donna’s adventurous spirit took her and Dean on many exciting travels, both within the United States and internationally. They visited all corners of the country, took several cruises, and even embarked on memorable trips to Alaska and Hawaii. Donna’s wanderlust didn’t stop at the U.S. borders, as she also enjoyed trips to Jamaica, Central America and many others out of the country.
Fishing was a favorite pastime for Donna, and she and Dean would often be found casting their lines at various locations throughout the area. Lake Taneycomo, near Branson, held a special place in their hearts and served as one of their favorite fishing spots. Donna’s love for fishing was a testament to her appreciation for life’s simple pleasures and her ability to find joy in every moment.
Donna is preceded in death by her parents, Theodore L. and Ethel A. Runquist Clapper, her brother Theodore Clapper, and two sisters, Jeanette Smith and Charlette “Betty” Hirzy. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, sister-in-law, Linda Clapper of Guthrie Center, several nieces and nephews, and a multitude of friends who will miss her dearly.
Donna Elaine Bruggeman’s life was a living testament to the power of love, kindness, and dedication to family and community. Her warm presence, unwavering support, and friendly nature will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. As we celebrate her life and mourn her passing, we take comfort in knowing that her legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched and the memories she leaves behind.
In accordance with Donna’s wishes her body has been cremated and there will be a memorial service at 11:00AM on Friday June 2, 2023 at Pedrick Funeral Home in Keosauqua with Larry Shipley officiating. Burial of cremains will follow the service in Fellows Cemetery south of Keosauqua. Memorials in Donna’s honor to Fellows Cemetery or the Keosauqua Fire Department may be left at the funeral home or mailed to the family at 16746 Hawk Drive, Birmingham, IA 52535. Friends may leave online condolences at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com.
