Donna Lehman

Donna Marie Lehman, 82, of Maxwell, Nebraska passed away June 5, 2024 at her daughter’s home in Maxwell. She was born April 12, 1942 to Nels and Julia (Smalis) Undem, in Terry, Montana.

Donna grew up in Terry participating heavily in youth 4-H programs and taking home several blue ribbons for her canning and sewing projects and showing her family’s lambs. Donna then graduated high school in 1960. She attended Montana State University in Bozeman. There, she received her teaching certificate and taught elementary students at local country schools. She met Gene Lehman and they were married May 15, 1965 in Ekalaka, MT at Gene’s parents ranch, George and Alice Lehman. Three children were born to this union, Nelseena, Jess, and Laurie.

Donna had a love for cooking and shared that with the school, ranch, brandings, and 4H camps. She’ll always be remembered as an excellent cook and seamstress. Donna made all of Gene’s shirts, which he was immensely proud of, due to each of his shirts being a one of a kind. After Gene’s passing, she went back to college in Riverton, Wyoming graduating from Chadron State College. After graduating with her Bachelor’s degree she taught at the Carver country school and the American Horse School on the Pine Ridge Reservation. Donna moved to Nebraska in 2006 teaching at Hall School in North Platte and then substituting for many years. After choosing to retire, embroidering blocks and hand quilting each one into special baby blankets for her grandchildren, great- grandchildren, and members of her community was how she chose to leave her family and other loved ones with a piece of her heart. Growing and canning vegetables from her own garden, and presenting stunning flowers she lovingly nurtured were her favorite gifts to share.

Survivors include her children, Nelseena (Kurt) Lehmann, Kildare, Oklahoma, Jess Lehman, Capital, South Dakota, Laurie (Matthew) Hatch, Maxwell, Nebraska; grandchildren Hunter Lehmann, Oakley Lehmann, Kildare Oklahoma, Karnee Hatch, Dallas, Texas, Falon Hatch, Michell, Nebraska; great-granddaughter, Aspen Arnett, Kildare Oklahoma; sister, Connie (David) Bosman, Tucson, Arizona; along with numerous other family members and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband Gene; sister, Diane O’Neill.

A memorial has been established in her name.

Cremation was chosen. Services for Donna will be held in Ekalaka at a later date.

Adams & Swanson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.