Donna Jean Struyk

MISSION- Donna Jean Struyk, born April 6, 1922, passed away September 26, 2012. She was born in the small town of Sheldon, IA, but lived life in a big way. She was an excellent student, and after skipping over two grades, graduated at the age of 16 from High School. She then went on to college and nurse's school. After graduating, she joined the U.S. Army and served our country in the army nurses corp. attaining the rank of 2nd LT. Following WWII, she returned to Sheldon and soon reunited with a handsome young Army Sgt. whom she had known in High School. Before long they married and moved to Des Moines, IA. where they began life's journey together. In 1947 their first child, a son, was born, and soon after three daughters followed. Music was one of the many things she enjoyed. She was active in her church choir and over the years served as Choir Director at several parishes. She loved to sing and was proficient on the piano, violin and Clarinet. The Sweet Adeline's Barbershop organization became her passion. She was a member for over 60 years. She served as Director chapter member and sang in several award winning quartets. Her laughter, wit, and zest for life will always be remembered. She is survived by her still handsome husband, Harold "Heck" Struyk, her four children Dave, Kathy, Susan and Marcia, 8 grand-children and 8 great grand-children. A military honors grave-side service will be conducted on Tuesday, October 2, 2012, at 11:00 AM at the Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery in Mission. Family and friends are invited to gather following the service at Alladin Villa Ballroom in Mission. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her honor to the Wounded Warriors project org. (877)832-6997. You're invited to sign the online guestbook at www.vaughanfuneral.com. Funeral arrangements and services have been entrusted to the care of Vaughan Watson Funeral Home of Edinburg.