Donna Marie Poff Bunker

Donna Marie Poff Bunker was born October 19, 1947 in Cincinnati OH to Jennie Ruth and Howard Vincent Poff. She was later sealed to her mother and step-father, Omer Don Delker. She was the oldest of four children, and was always a loving sister to Sam, Cathy, and Don.

She graduated from Taft Senior High School in Hamilton OH, and soon headed off to BYU to continue her desire for an education. Among many talents, Donna was particularly blessed with a beautiful soprano voice and she had a gift for bringing music to those around her.

One of her first solo performances was in primary when she was asked to sing what she knew best. She belted out Pistol Packing Mama, making all the adults laugh and struggle to continue on with the lesson. This was the beginning of a musical journey that would become an important part of her life. Among her musical accomplishments was singing a solo in Handel's Messiah, year after year, a treasured opportunity that showcased her remarkable voice and love of music.

After meeting briefly in Ohio while Gayle served his LDS mission, Donna saw him from afar several times on campus after beginning her freshman year at BYU. One memorable fall afternoon in 1965, as Donna walked out of the BYU devotional assembly, she saw Gayle again—and this time he saw her, too. They exchanged hellos, and, as she later recalled to a friend, “if it was the last thing I ever did, I was going to get a date with him.” That brief encounter was the beginning of a remarkable love story.

Donna and Gayle were married on May 27, 1966. They shared 60 years in a marriage she defined as "founded in love, understanding and honesty." Through the years they were blessed with nine children Brian, Cynthia (Marcos), Shelly (Gardner), Kevin, Darin (Chellese), Tamara (Mike), Bradley, Amanda (Troy), and Johnny (Jessica); 29 grandchildren, and so far 24 great grandchildren.

Donna worked together with Gayle to support their family. She ran an in-home daycare for many years while their children were young and completed her college education at night school. She spent 25 years as a first grade teacher and reading coach. Donna taught herself any skill needed to raise their family and make their home beautiful. She loved reading, sewing, crafting, crocheting, cooking, decorating, gardening, shopping and talking with friends on the phone. She cherished so many good friends throughout her life. She was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and diligently served wherever she was called.

Preceded in death by her parents, (Howard, Jennie and Omer) parents-in-law (Lyle and Lorna), son (Brian Keith) and sister (Cathy).

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, October 14th at 1:00pm with interment in Washington City Cemetery.

We love you mom and want to say thank you for giving us a beautiful life. Give our love, hugs and kisses to Brian.