Messer, Donalda Alma

Donalda Alma Messer

Donalda Alma Messer, 75, passed away peacefully at 4:25am, Tuesday July 31st, after a brief and courageous fight with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia.

Donalda was born September 23, 1942, in Gilbert Plains, Manitoba. She was the youngest of 4 children, and was doted upon by her siblings. After moving to Churchill, Manitoba for a short time, her family moved to Nelson, BC in 1952.

She met her husband, Robert Messer, while ice-skating in 1958. A long distance relationship ensued while she attended the University of Victoria where she was working toward her teaching degree. The marriage proposal came at Christmas in 1960 and they were married at the Mission Covenant Church in 1961. Two children followed, Kent, in 1970, and Kara, in 1976.

Once both children were in school, Donalda spent several summers completing her teaching degree during summer school at the University of Victoria. Throughout her teaching career she taught at South Nelson School, Rosemont Elementary, Salmo Elementary, and Hume School. She retired in 2004 but remained connected volunteering with the Retired Teachers’ Association.

Donalda was always active in her community often in a musical capacity, hosting bible studies, and using her musical gifts at church. She was known for her kindness, generosity, and willingness to help others.

She is survived by her husband of 57 years, Robert, son, Kent (Kim), daughter, Kara, (Troy), three grandchildren, Shana, Sophie and River, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Celebration of Donalda’s life will be held at 11am on Saturday, August 11th, at the First Baptist Church, 611 Fifth Street, Nelson, BC. Lunch to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be placed with The Gideons International, info@gideons.ca or 519-823-1140.