Our dear mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, Donna Jean Sperry Madsen, passed away May 17, 2021 in Bountiful, Utah surrounded by her children. After enduring the challenges of age for many years she is now free to enjoy her next stage of eternity.
She was born the oldest of 7 children on June 16, 1927 in Nephi, Utah, the daughter of James Lamont Sperry and Ada Allred. She spent her childhood in Nephi and graduated from Juab High School. She attended Snow College in Ephraim, Utah where she met her husband, Dale.
She married Dale A Madsen on May 24,1946 in Reno, Nevada prior to Dale leaving to serve in World War II. They were later sealed in the Salt Lake Temple. Mom and Dad lived in Tooele and Ephraim before moving to Rose Park, where they lived for over 60 years and made many dear friends.
After raising her family, Mom worked for 15 years at the Salt Lake City School District. As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, mom had a deep testimony and love of the Savior. She set a great example for us in being willing to do all she could. She and dad were often the last to leave any church activity to see that they helped as much as possible. Mom always loved serving in the Primary. After retiring she served a 10-year mission at the Conference Center.
She enjoyed reading, painting, hand quilting, cooking and serving others. Mom was an excellent seamstress and made most of her daughter’s dresses. Being athletic she enjoyed all sports, particularly baseball, and supported grandchildren in all sports and events. Mom made friends easily and loved camping with friends, traveling the world with her husband, and spending time with her family.
She is survived by her children Lynadale (Ken) Powell, Alan (Barbara) Madsen, Mary Lou (Michael) Orme, April (Scott) Quinn; 19 grandchildren and 39 great-grandchildren; sisters Anita Young and Janice Budshun. She is preceded in death by her husband Dale; two sons Gene and Jeff; brothers Elwood Sperry, Byron Sperry, Gordon Sperry and a sister Joyce Marcus. Services will be held Saturday, May 22, 2021, 12:00 pm at the Rose Park LDS 4th Ward eastside chapel, 800 N 1200 W, SLC, UT. A viewing will be held Friday May 21, 2021 from 6:00-8:00 at the church. There will also be a viewing Saturday from 10:30-11:45 am prior to the services. Internment at the Larkin Sunset Gardens, Sandy, Utah.
If you would like to watch the service via Zoom please log in to zoom and press on the watch service button at the top right of the Obituary page at the time of service.
Special thanks to the staff of Legacy House of Bountiful and Inspiration Home and Hospice for all their kind and loving service to our mother.
I loved Donna and Dale. They were special people in our lives. We went on several trips with them. We surely enjoyed our Bear Lake Ward Outings with them. I know she really struggled the past few years so I am glad she has gone on to join up with Dale.
My condolences go out to the family.
She was a dear friend to my mom. I know it’s hard to see parents go and at the same time it’s a celebration because they get to be with family and friends who preceded them. I always thought Donna was tough and yet tender. She always let me know where she stood on issues. I thought she and Buzz made a great team. What a great legacy they left ! What a lovely lady Donna was❤️😎
Dear family, we send our love to you all at the passing of our sweet friend, Donna. We have so many wonderful memories of our years in Rose Park! Raising kids, the neighborhood, the ward, the little league football games, and especially the Holiday Bowl trips to California. Your mom and dad gave us so much love and friendship! Our best to you all at this difficult time.
Love always
K and K
April,
I just heard this morning from Karen about your mom's passing. I am so sorry for your loss. I was able to watch the funeral via Zoom. You and your siblings all gave great tributes to your mom. She was a wonderful person. I loved all the sayings your mom had; my mom said pretty much the same ones when I was growing up. I have such fond memories of my time in Rose Park. I have many memories of playing in your yard. Climbing and sitting in your apple tree is one of the best. Again, I'm sorry for your loss.
Ila Summers White
Our deepest sympathy goes out to Donna's family.
I knew and loved Donna working with her in the
church for many years. God bless you all throughout
this trying time.
Love,
Mary & Gary Vaughan