Donna M Esser

Mankato Mortuary
507-388-2202

Donna Mae Esser, age 76, of Mankato, died Saturday, January 29, 2011 at her home.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, February 3, 2011 at Mankato Mortuary. Visitation will be 4-7 p.m. on Wednesday at Mankato Mortuary and continues one hour prior to the service on Thursday. Memorials may be given to the donor's choice.

Donna was born on January 14, 1935 in Pemberton. She was the daughter of Pete and Blossom (Southwick) Peterson. Donna attended school in Mankato. She was united in marriage to Michael Esser on July 15, 1960 in Mankato. Donna was a homemaker for her family and also assisted her husband with custodial work at various companies. She was a member of Bethel Baptist Church in Mankato. Donna enjoyed gardening, collecting figurines and other items, and especially spending time with her grandchildren.

Donna is survived by her husband, Mike of Mankato; five children, Craig (Thelma) Esser of Mankato, Melanie (Stefan) Burton of Mankato, Annie Esser of Mankato, Troy Esser of Sibley, IA, and Leila Esser of Mankato; one step-son, William (Diana) Esser of Kasota; ten grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; one brother, Charles "Rusty" (Donna) Peterson of North Mankato; one sister, Audrey (Ted) Waknitz of Mankato; also several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two grandchildren; son-in-law, Les Sack; three sisters; one twin brother and two additional brothers.