In MEMORIAM
Donna Slaton Wallesverd, 89, formerly of Tomahawk, went home to be with the Lord on May 11, 2021.
Donna was born on August 16, 1931, in Prentice, Wisconsin, to George and Ruth (Ingraham) Nuehring. Born at just 28 weeks, her life began as a miracle—sustained by her mother’s loving care and a strength she carried throughout her life.
She met her husband John “Jack” Slaton, in Prentice. Together they built their home and family in Tomahawk while owning and operating Slaton’s Furniture. After Jack’s passing, Donna continued the business with courage and determination. Her creative spirit later led her to open Donna’s House of Design, and Shaklee where her eye for beauty and her love for people turned customers into lifelong friends.
Music and faith were at the heart of Donna’s life. She devoted herself to lifelong Christian ministry as a worship leader, accomplished church pianist, and organist. She had a beautiful voice and a gift for songwriting, carefully writing each note by hand so her music could be shared and remembered. Through decades of leading Vacation Bible School and serving in her beloved church, Donna’s love reached thousands of children and adults. Her music was her ministry—a way she lifted others, comforted hearts, and shared her faith.
Donna loved deeply—her family, her community, and her faith. She showed that love in the quiet, meaningful ways that mattered most: preparing meals, opening her home, and making her famous pop-overs that became a cherished family tradition. She was a devoted mother and grandmother whose presence brought creativity, strength, and connection.
Her life also carried profound hardship. Donna was a survivor of domestic violence at a time when there was little help available for women, especially in small communities. Jack’s alcoholism and mania added to those struggles, leaving lasting effects on the family. These early experiences shaped generations in ways still felt today. Yet through it all, her faith remained steady.
It is my heartfelt prayer that surviving siblings Ted, Bruce, Jeff, and Karen —and all her family find healing, restoration, and peace.
A special acknowledgment is given to her faithful son, Jeff, whose steadfast presence, love, and care reflect the very strength, devotion, and faith that Donna carried throughout her life. His faithfulness stands as a quiet testimony to her enduring influence.
Donna is preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Avalon; her husband and father of her children, John “Jack” Slaton; daughters Jacqueline and Ellen; her later husband, Guerdan Wallesverd; and her beloved dog, Darla.
Donna is survived by her children Ted (Vicki) Slaton; Bruce (Magda) Slaton; Jeff (Sandi) Slaton, Karen Slaton plus 15 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, and at least four great-great-grandchildren.
Donna’s life was one of faith, resilience, and love. The music she created, the lives she touched, and the faith she lived out will continue to echo for generations.
