Obituary

Donna Oehler was born on April 6, 1933, embarked on her final journey, passing away on July 27, 2023. Donna was born to Phillip and Phyllis Seldomridge in Colorado Springs.  Donna’s life was a testament to her unwavering spirit and her enduring love for learning and the world around her.

Donna graduated from Bellingham High School in 1950. She then attended Western Washington College for two years before transferring to Washington State University, where she graduated in 1954 with a bachelor’s degree in Home Economics and Education. Her passion for teaching was evident as she began her career at Sequim, WA, and Sequim Senior High School.

While she initially contemplated furthering her education with a master’s degree at Cornell University, fate had other plans. During her first summer break from teaching, Donna met the love of her life, Donald Oehler, a chemical engineer at Georgia Pacific and they married in 1956.

Donna’s true passions in life were rooted in her boundless curiosity and her profound love for gardening. She possessed an innate green thumb and earned her Master Gardening certification in 1980 and then volunteered in the community by giving lectures, creating gardens, conducting research, and many other projects throughout her lifetime. Her connection with the earth was a source of inspiration and solace for her, and she shared this passion with all those fortunate enough to visit her garden.

Donna was also lifelong active and cherished member of the local AB Chapter P.E.O. International; a philanthropic organization that celebrate and educate women through scholarships, grants, awards, and loans.  She was initiated in 1967 and twice served as president as well as many other chapter offices.  She thoroughly enjoyed her membership and all the women she served with for over 50 years.

Donna was an explorer at heart, and she nurtured a deep fascination with the world beyond her own. Her travels took her to far-flung destinations, but none captured her heart quite like Egypt which held a special place in her heart. She embraced every opportunity for discovery.

Donna was a woman of spirit and adventure. Donna’s adventurous spirit knew no bounds, and her infectious laughter brightened the lives of all who knew her.

Donna is survived by her brother, Charlie Seldomridge, her children, Jeff Oehler, Leanne Oehler, and Sandra Ward (Oehler) as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Donna was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Donald, who passed away in 2022, and her dear parents, Phil, and Phyllis.

Donna touched the lives of many with her laughter, her warm heart, and her enduring spirit. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her, and she will be deeply missed.